what does Ruth do to feel connected to Susie and why does imagining Susie makes Ruth feels better? how does this connection help develop the theme of loneliness and isolation?

Ruth is completely isolated from the living and has found an outlet for her life in communicating with Susie. Susie used Ruth's body after she returned to town, and she touched Rith's soul on her way to Heaven. Ruth becomes good friends with Ray, and through Ruth we learn Susie's story.