Bob

Bob is the second narrator and protagonist. Though neither he nor Livy know what he is, he possesses many human traits, despite his appearance as an otherworldly creature. He enjoys learning and intellectual stimulation, evidenced by the time he spends studying the dictionary and creating numerous configurations with the set of Legos. He also learns chess and understands strategy. In these ways, he is intelligent and more akin to a human than to a monster. He is loving and lovable, with a warm spirit and a joyous, upbeat personality. He enjoys spending time with Livy and trusts her to help him return to his home. Bob is quirky and his antics are humorous. He worries, for instance, that his foot may detach from his body as it becomes stuck inside the chicken suit when he tries to remove it. Bob is resourceful and innovative, coming up with ways to pass the time while Livy is away and “outsmarting” adults by sneaking past them unseen. Bob relishes in these and other small accomplishments and feels especially proud when he helps Livy recall details of her previous visit, such as the existence of their “special rock” and his discovery of Danny’s drawing of the well.

Obtaining a sense of belonging and purpose is important to Bob. He has spent the past five years saddened by Livy’s departure and upset by the possibility that she does not plan to carry out her promise to return. He speaks of feeling invisible, and, in a manner of speaking, this is true, as Bob is forced to hide from other humans, per Livy’s instructions. “Being seen” reassures him that he matters and reinforces that Livy cares about his well-being. Similarly, Bob regards the connection Livy has to her family longingly, wishing the same for himself. When he is ultimately reunited with his mother, Bob is overjoyed and deeply satisfied to have found the connection he has longed for. Further, his re-discovery of his identity as a well dweller fills him with a sense of purpose and meaning. He recognizes that he plays a role in the necessary process of bringing rain. Though Bob will miss Livy, his character has evolved to understand that he must remain where he belongs and where he serves a purpose. Yet, his final action of returning the black pawn to Livy underscores his desire to have Livy remember him so that they may maintain their connection despite their physical distance.