59 pages • 1 hour read
Ali BenjaminThe Next Great Paulie Fink
Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2019A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more.
Character Analysis
Caitlyn Breen
Caitlyn, the protagonist of The Next Great Paulie Fink, undergoes a nuanced and compelling character development that reflects the novel’s central themes. Initially introduced as an outsider striving to fit into her new school, Caitlyn grapples with a sense of identity and belonging. Her use of storytelling, exemplified by the parable of the girl and Real Rabbit, showcases her introspective nature and desire for personal growth. Caitlyn’s gradual acceptance of her true self unfolds through her participation in the Paulie Fink competition. Her role as the competition’s creator and facilitator not only establishes her as a central figure but also emphasizes her ability to influence and guide her peers. The evolving dynamics within the Originals’ group underscore Caitlyn’s impact on those around her.
As the narrative progresses, Caitlyn’s interactions with her peers reveal her adaptability and resilience. The soccer game serves as a pivotal moment where Caitlyn, despite her initial hesitation, embraces the unorthodox and unites the Originals in an unconventional strategy. This exemplifies her transformative journey toward embracing spontaneity and disruption, key elements in the theme of The Odyssey of Self-Discovery and Personal Excellence. Furthermore, Caitlyn’s decision to crown the goat as the next Paulie serves as a 
