Stargirl

Leo Borlock is a self-proclaimed shy boy. He is more comfortable watching and directing what goes on in life from behind the lens of his television cameras than in participating. He thinks of himself as “timid, introverted me” (107) and keeps bigger emotions inside until Stargirl teaches him to find his joie de vivre. Before Stargirl, Leo would smile rather than laugh out loud. The initial changes Stargirl brings to Mica High make Leo feel “unshackled” (41) and better able to express his feelings. Privately, Leo has an eye for beauty, color, and “the otherness of things” (12). His figurative, nature-based descriptions of Stargirl contain a wistful, reverential quality that emphasizes her connection to nature and Leo’s enchantment with her.

At 16, however, it is important to Leo to fit in with the other students at Mica High. He does not have the same level of self-confidence and self-awareness that Stargirl has. His identity is firmly tied to the approval of the group. He feels invisible and isolated when his association with Stargirl results in his ostracization. Leo is “uncomfortable in the spotlight” (85). He does not like being “Mr. Stargirl” but is thrilled to be “Mr. Susan” when Stargirl attempts to be normal for his sake.