Stanley Yelnats, the protagonist of Louis Sachar's acclaimed novel Holes, is 14 years old during the events of the book. He is identified as Stanley Yelnats IV, a young teenager whose journey at Camp Green Lake forms the core of the story.
Stanley's Character at 14
Stanley's age plays a significant role in shaping his experiences and his portrayal in the novel. As a 14-year-old, he faces a unique set of challenges and undergoes considerable personal growth.
Key aspects of Stanley's character at this age include:
- Social Challenges: Stanley is depicted as a lonely individual who struggles to form friendships. He is often picked on and bullied by his peers, a common struggle for teenagers, which is exacerbated by his circumstances.
- Physical Vulnerability: His size contributes to the bullying he endures, highlighting the vulnerability of a young boy facing a harsh environment and unfair treatment.
- Nickname: At Camp Green Lake, he is given the nickname "Caveman" by the other campers, a moniker that reflects the rugged and demanding life he is forced to lead.
His youth emphasizes the injustice of his situation, as a boy of his age is wrongfully convicted and sent to a juvenile detention camp where he is forced to dig holes under extreme conditions. The narrative explores themes of resilience, family legacy, and the search for identity through the lens of this developing young character.
For further information about the novel Holes and its characters, you can consult sources like the Holes (novel) Wikipedia page.