Kes symbolises Billy’s escape from the harsh realities of the life he is in.

It shows he has the ability to look after something (something his own mother lacks) and when in the right circumstances he is caring, mature and resourceful in a positive manner.

He talks to it gently which is the opposite to how most people talk to him.

Although Billy steals the library book (because he is abused by the adults again) he is genuinely interested in kestrels and the book will tell him how to look after one.