Keep in mind that a dynamic
character is simply one who grows and changes throughout the book, rather
than remaining stagnant. Lily, as a fourteen year old at the opening of the story, has
much growing up to do, both as a result of her age and her
circumstances.
The best way to fully answer this question,
is to look and perhaps jot down some characteristics of Lily at the beginning, middle,
and end of the novel. She starts out as a somewhat timid (but certainly not cowardly)
girl who's sense of self is wrapped up in a dead mother and an emotionally distant
father. In short, she does not feel loved by those around her, and therefore, does not
love herself. She does, however, have the capacity to understand she can change her
circumstances, and so she runs away with Rosaleen.
Lily
changes while living at August's house, and though gradual, the changes are distinct.
They could almost be tracked chapter-by-chapter. Chapter 12, however, is one of the
biggest turning points (both in the story and in Lily's character). In a conversation
with August, Lily finally admits her guilt about her mother's death, and inability to
love herself. When August points out how many people do love her,
it is as if a light finally penetrates the darkness that has been clouding her vision.
She begins to build a confidence that can only come from
self-love.
Finally, her changes are manifested in the final
chapter of the book, when T. Ray arrives to bring Lily home. More than likely, had he
appeared earlier, Lily would have timidly (and pitifully) gone with him, believing there
was nothing she could do about it. However, given the changes in her heart and life,
Lily is able to stand up to T. Ray and tell him she's going to stay with August. In
this moment, Lily displays a sense of calm confidence and independence she possibly did
not even know she had inside her, which could only be the result of her relationships
and experience with August and the other other women who helped Lily define
herself.
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