Not Nothing

For people like Alex, Josey, and Olka, redemption is not just a personal matter, but one undertaken through relationships with others. Alex begins the story believing he is irredeemable and has done something beyond forgiving. His violent actions toward Toby and the label of “criminal” weigh on him constantly. It is because of the people at Shady Glen, who all see a different side to Alex, that he becomes capable of seeing and accessing that better self, illustrating the theme of finding redemption through community.

It is clear through the story of Olka and Josey that forgiveness can inspire a person to change. Olka tells Jozef, “It’s as if you’ve invited out my better self and, in doing so, invited me to rise to the occasion, rather than sink to it” (99). This line frames the emotional arc of the book, because it implies that people become their best selves when someone else sees them that way. Josey’s love for Olka, and later his mentorship of Alex, demonstrates this. He forgives Olka’s sharp words and pushes her toward something greater without even intending to. 

In the same way, Josey believes in Alex when Alex cannot yet believe in himself.