A simile is a comparison of two unlike things using "like" or "as".
For example:
"John was like an eagle, as he quickly spotted the rabbit, and was able to capture it."
Note that the word <em>like</em> was used, and that it compared <em>John</em> with the <em>eagle</em>
hope this helps
<span>a comparison of two sets of events, ideas, and things</span>
The main character is the girl ( the salesman could be considered one too but since you said character not characters its most probs the girl). The story takes place mostly at the store since thats her destination, the place where she forgot the money, and the place that had sympathy on her when she did (basically where all the events took place). Finally, the information that makes the readers want to continue reading is perhaps the fact that she will pay the store back which sort of already develops a plot for the next bit.
It important to recognize ones role in life because it helps in self-improvement. It makes you more successful. It influences you in changing your character to a better one if you are been bad. This is why we have a life therefore use it.
Start a fire. It sets the entire island on fire and puts them in danger. As far as irony goes, fire is a symbol of hope in the novel, so it is ironic that hope is the thing that would destroy them (if they were not found just in time).