Marty functions as the story’s protagonist, growing from a secretive, fearful, and mischievous boy to a more mature, honest, empathetic, and brave person. At age 11, Marty is already shown to be kind and empathetic due to his overwhelming love for Shiloh and his family. He shows his compassion and innate morality often, especially when he ruminates on his guilt for thinking any unkind ideas. This pattern becomes apparent in the novel’s climactic scene, when his dislike of Judd compels him to briefly wish the man dead:

I’m thinking how if Judd could just be dead, our problems would be over. Wouldn’t have to worry about his hunting on our land, wouldn’t have to wonder if he’d drive by drunk some night and run over Shiloh. Wouldn’t have to be scared he’d take another shot at me. But as soon as the thought come into my mind, I’m ashamed, and saying, ‘No, Jesus, I didn’t mean it’ (97).

The earnest, emotional tone of this inner thought reflects the honesty of Marty’s mindset, and the author presents a realistic impression of the tumble of thoughts that a young boy would have when confronted with such a traumatic sight.