What was Brent Bishop's character in Whirligig?

In "Whirligig" by Paul Fleischman, Brent Bishop is a troubled teenager grappling with feelings of isolation and guilt following a tragic incident. His character undergoes significant development as he embarks on a journey of self-discovery after he is tasked with creating whirligigs as a form of penance. Through his experiences, Brent learns about the interconnectedness of life and the impact of his actions on others. His transformation represents a quest for redemption and understanding in the face of personal turmoil.