Themes

Facing your fears

The short story “Zolo” by S. Bhattacharya-Woodward explores the theme of facing your fears and being in control. 

Zolo, the story’s main character, has to deal with a lot of issues that are outside of his control: he cannot push his mother to become active, cannot control his family situation, cannot take care of his younger brother, cannot deal with his peers at school, and cannot control the decision of social workers. Therefore, Zolo deliberately seeks out a challenging situation that he can master and that can help him face his fears. He chooses to walk on the rooftop of his building, even though he is afraid of heights. 

Zolo faces his fears and, through determination and self-control, transforms a dramatic experience into an empowering one. Afte...