He mainly uses direct characterization throughout his novel by stating characteristics the main character portrays in his story. The author choses to focus on one character only , which allows the reader to focus on and learn about one single individual . The writer's use of direct characterization can be analyzed at the introduction of his novel , as Zits identifies himself. “Call me Zits. Everybody calls me Zits That’s not my real name of course , My real mane isn’t important , (Alexie 1).” Here the author gives the reader with some important information about the character , and illustrates the characters emotion toward his biological name . Although Alexie's work is mainly composed of direct characterization , he includes indirect characterization as well . This example is found when the author describes Zits physical appearance, and Zits feelings towards himself . I look in the mirror and count the zits on my face … Fourteen zits on my forehead . Twenty – one on my left cheek . Six on my right cheek . Five on my chin . A huge North Star zit shines bright on the end of my nose… Being tall and skinny and ugly, …show more content…
The author expresses in his writing how all people in life have their ups and downs . In this specific novel the author illustrates that with time a person can change and mistakes are often something people have to learn from to become a better person . This leads to one theme displayed in the novel which is the search for self identify. When Zits is faced with the difficult decision on whether to shoot up a bank or not , the lessons he learns from time traveling make him realize that every choice has a consequence .This helps Zits make the right decision of not taking the risk of ruining his life . Sherman tries to deliver a brief message of thinking before one acts , and that people should chose their friends closely. Lastly that one might think that they have no purpose in life , but in reality there will always be someone to greet them with arms wide