Silent To The Bone

Content Warning: This section mentions child physical and sexual abuse and death of a parent.

Connor is the story’s protagonist and narrator. He is the best friend of Branwell Zamborska and the key source of communication and relief that Branwell finds during his time in the detention center. Connor is asked by Branwell’s father to visit Branwell and encourage him to speak up about what happened to Nikki. Connor knows that he has a mountainous task ahead of him, but he doesn’t let this deter him and sets out to help his friend. Connor works with Branwell to communicate in their own way, understanding Silence as a Form of Communication and demonstrating Friendship, Family, and Their Unspoken Understandings. Connor is just 13 years old but is wise beyond his years and a clever detective as well. He knows that if he wants to help Branwell break his silence, he needs to be his friend and rely on the shared understanding that has developed after years of friendship and growing up together. Connor is a reflective and highly emotive person, and he often thinks back to past conversations with Branwell as he attempts to determine what really happened to Nikki.