David Petrakis Character Analysis

Like Ivy, David Petrakis becomes an ally of Melinda’s, after beginning the year as her biology lab partner. Generally considered a genius, David is also a principled and moral person, qualities that he displays when he protests Mr. Neck’s racist and bigoted remarks about immigrants. David acts in a friendly way towards Melinda, and may even show romantic interest in her, despite her hesitance and mistrust around people, particularly men. He also helps her to join in his fight against Mr. Neck by silently protesting the tyrannical teacher in front of the whole class, although he tells her that she needs to speak out for what she believes.