In Jodi Picoult's book "Between the Lines," the narrator reflects on the idea of a fictional character who has taken on a life of his own in the minds of readers. Although the narrator has never met this character, he embodies various qualities that people admire, such as being a heroic figure, a skilled communicator, and a clever escape artist. This illustrates the powerful connection between readers and the characters they love.

This connection highlights how fictional characters can fill emotional voids and serve multiple roles in people's lives. They become symbols of hope, inspiration, and aspiration, transcending their made-up origins to become important figures in the hearts and minds of those who encounter their stories.