The Magic Finger

Content Warning: This section of the guide includes discussion of animal cruelty and death.

The magic finger creates suspense and mystery in the story. Because it cannot be controlled, even the protagonist who wields it is sometimes afraid of it. This introduces an interesting complexity: Power, even when used for good, can be frightening if it stems from uncontrolled emotion. the magic finger is not only a plot device but a multi-layered metaphor. It is the source of magic in the story and acts as both a superpower and a symbol of The Power of Emotion. The protagonist explains that it activates when she gets very angry or upset, and that she cannot control it or fully understand it: “I can’t tell you just how I do it, because I don’t even know myself” (14). This gives the magic finger a life of its own, and it has the ability to cause major changes amongst the characters of the story.

the magic finger is also a symbol of the child’s voice (often ignored) and of justice, particularly concerning protecting someone vulnerable (like the protagonist herself or the animals she defends).