Essay Questions

What elements make this a coming-of-age story?

Firstly, the novel focuses on a teenage protagonist, and follows him at the pivotal time in his life where he is transitioning into an adult. This transition is reflected by the physical transition as he moves from Alabama to New Mexico as he confronts and adapts to these changes.

Throughout the novel, Josh is faced with challenges. Firstly, he must deal with his father leaving, and must adjust to an entirely new culture. He then must deal with his mother, as she struggles with alcoholism, isolation and depression. Numerous times in the text he takes responsibility for his mother’s actions and finds a solution to the problems she creates. In this way, he becomes the head of the household, and matures accordingly. We see that the absence of his father has made him grow up quicker.

When Josh’s father dies in a mine accident, he believes that his childhood is over. From this point onwards, Josh officially becomes the head of the household, and take on responsibilities that his father had. For example, he sells the Alabama home, and take over the family shipyard business.

How does Josh's mother adapt to life in New Mexico?

Josh’s mother does not adapt well to life in New Mexico. Firstly, she is unhappy as her husband has joined U.S army, which puts her in a vulnerable position. She focuses on the negatives of her situation and does not even try to adjust to her new community or try to make any friends. She complains about the food, culture and people of her new town, and is incredibly intolerant. As such, she has a much harder time than Josh. She will occasionally play bridge with neighbors; however, she mostly keeps to herself and drinks in the cellar. Josh becomes worried about her and contacts a psychiatrist.