Characters constantly influence one another directly and indirectly throughout the story. Oscar starts as someone heavily influenced by the negative moods and lack of faith of those around him, but he develops into someone who positively influences others. His parents don’t believe in God, so Oscar’s faith journey is guided by Granny Rose instead. This journey guides Oscar in helping others come to accept his death. He understands that Dr. Dusseldorf feels guilty and sad around him, and he also recognizes that “what the doctor thinks is contagious” (3) because none of the adults at the hospital can look him in the eye happily anymore. When Oscar finally tells Dr. Dusseldorf not to feel so much responsibility for the situation, the tension between them eases.

Oscar has a similar effect on Granny Rose. Throughout most of the story, it appears that Granny Rose is the one influencing Oscar. She encourages him to write to God, takes him to visit the hospital chapel, and guides him in building and repairing his personal relationships. At the end of the story, it’s Oscar who has positively influenced Granny Rose because their relationship brings her closer to God.