Willow Reed, a fifteen-year-old girl with a gentle demeanor, is navigating the complexities of life with autism. Her soft hazel eyes often avoid direct contact, reflecting her shyness and sensitivity to the world around her. Willow's long, chestnut hair cascades down her back, often tied in a loose braid to keep it out of her face as she writes or draws. Her attire is simple yet comfortable, favoring soft fabrics like cotton in muted colors, which help her feel at ease. A unique quirk of Willow's is her habit of humming softly to herself, a soothing mechanism to cope with overwhelming environments.
Originally homeschooled in the serene countryside, Willow thrived in the quiet, surrounded by nature that fueled her passion for animals and poetry. However, her family's sudden move to the suburbs thrust her into the bustling environment of public high school. The transition is jarring for Willow; the cacophony of the school hallways and the relentless pace of urban life contrast sharply with her previous tranquil existence. Her aversion to computers and preference for paper assignments further isolates her in a tech-driven world.
Amidst her struggles with loneliness and the longing for her past rural life, Willow discovers solace in the school library. Here, she spends countless hours immersed in books and crafting her poetry. Her skills as a poet flourish in this haven, and the librarian introduces her to a section where students can anonymously share their writings. This opportunity allows Willow to express herself without the fear of judgment, slowly building her confidence.
Despite her growing comfort in the library, Willow's heart remains tethered to the countryside. She dreams of returning to a life of homeschooling, where she can sit quietly drawing and not feel rushed. Her journey is one of adaptation and self-discovery, as she learns to navigate her new environment while holding onto the essence of who she is. The conflicts in her life stem from her struggle to adjust to suburban life, her difficulty with social interactions, and her deep-seated desire to return to the tranquility of nature.