In
The Wednesday Wars, Hollings father, Mr. Hoodhood, is an architect and
builder. He is obsessed with perfection but generally lacks the ability to achieve it. The gap
between reality and perfection bothers him, whether the subject of concern is his family or the
Perfect House of his design in which they live. Holling gains as much in maturity from coming
to terms with his fathers imperfections as he does from any advice or help his father provides.
Along with his sister, he learns that their fathers behavior shows his insecurity. Having built
a successful business, he not only hopes but expects that his son will inherit and run it.
Learning to stand up for his own desires, and to develop his own goals are important aspects of
maturing.
When Holling is having trouble in Mrs. Bakers class, he brings his
complaint to his father. Rather than ally himself with his sons concerns, Mr. Hoodhood urges him
not to make waves because Mrs. Bakers family members are important potential clients. Hollings
eyes are opened when there is a business dispute for which he bears partial responsibility.
Although the situation is resolved, Mr. Hoodhood gloats over his victory, and his son realizes
that the adult has been the product of others expectations rather than finding his own path, as
Holling now resolves to do.
Holling also learns from his relationship with
his sister. On one occasion, Holling valiantly saves her from being run over, but is himself hit
by the schoolbus. His fathers nonchalance extends to his not coming to the hospital when his son
is being examined about possible injury. He learns about mature behavior as well through his
sisters interactions with their father, who criticizes her constantly and does not respect her
educational aspirations. When Heather leaves home after disagreeing with their father, she is
soon stranded out of state. It is up to Holling to demonstrate maturity as he gets her out of
the jam; he wires her money so she can take the bus home.
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