Dolly Parton

Dolly is a central, inspirational figure for Willowdean and Ellen, and the girls frequently refer to her music for guidance or reassurance. Although Dolly looks cartoonish with her fake boobs and gigantic hair, she is sure of herself and does not pay any mind to the negative things that people say about her. She is carefree and acts as a role model for the girls. She symbolizes the confidence that every woman should feel about themselves, and her personality is embedded deeply into the novel.

Heart glasses

During their summertime romance, Bo gives Willowdean a dollar store pair of glasses. Although they are just supposed to be a small surprise, Willowdean feels completely transformed when she puts them on. The glasses are a symbol of what she could become if she wanted to. She states that, “In the mirror, I see a girl I don...