From fear of harm to fear of failure, most of the novel’s characters grapple with doubt and anxiety at one point or another. Fear is particularly central to Lindy’s character arc, yet the novel also normalizes the emotion for young readers, showing that adults too may struggle with it. Nevertheless, Andrews implies that it is important to confront fear, as to exercise one’s imagination and knowledge to the fullest, one must also have courage. 

Lindy’s experiences with fear set the pattern that recurs throughout the novel. At first, Lindy is afraid to knock on the Stone House door. However, after speaking with Ben, she finds the courage to complete the bet, the knowledge that her brothers are nearby helping her confront her disquiet. This implies that encouragement and support can help a person work through their fears. It is significant as well that Lindy remains afraid throughout the scene, as illustrated by her screams when Primrose answers the door. In other words, confronting fear does not mean eliminating it but rather persevering in spite of it. Lindy’s courage results in the siblings reconnecting with Savant, thus enabling the rest of their adventures.

Lindy experiences similar scenes in Whangdoodleland. The Sidewinders make Lindy cry, but she doesn’t run. She endures the frightening creatures and survives. Savant tells Lindy, “You were very brave about it” (98). After Lindy mentions her tears, Savant replies, “[I]t’s all right to cry” (98), underscoring that feeling afraid isn’t a sign of weakness or cowardliness. Moreover, the more Lindy challenges her fears, the braver she becomes. She doesn’t panic when the Splintercat kidnaps her and even scolds him for his deception; she also remains composed throughout the episode, recognizing that Savant and her brothers are probably searching for her and singing so that they can find her. The end epitomizes Lindy’s development and the broader theme of bravery. She’s the youngest, but she crosses the bridge by herself and brings Savant back to the palace, ensuring that Savant can make a companion for the Whangdoodle.

Savant and the Whangdoodle’s arcs further illustrate the rewards of confronting fear. Savant is fearful of meeting the Whangdoodle. He has worked for years to achieve his goals, and now that he’s almost there, he’s so afraid of failing that he stays behind. Once again, support proves key in confronting fear, as Lindy brings Savant across the bridge and then reminds him of his belief in hard work and possibility. The Whangdoodle, meanwhile, is afraid of humans, believing, “[H]umans aren’t to be trusted” (266). His reasons are valid; he cites humanity’s violence, including using a “barbaric rack and boiling oil” on adversaries (224). Nevertheless, the Whangdoodle can only obtain what he wants—a female Whangdoodle—by setting aside his unease and welcoming Savant and the children. Through the Whangdoodle in particular, the novel suggests that even a well-founded fear may stand in the way of happiness or progress, making bravery all the more vital.