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by Catherine MacPhail
Plot Overview
The story is narrated by Rory, a young boy who lived alone with his grandfather, Mr. McIntosh whom he lovingly calls 'Granda'. Rory's father had left him when he was still small and his mother had died of a broken heart.
One life lesson that I have learnt from Rory is that one should be a
responsible family member. Rory was a very responsible boy even though he was
still a young kid. He realised that Granda had looked after him all his life
and now that Granda needed him, he would take care of him. He did the shopping
and cooking. He cleaned the house.
Rory also gave up football for Granda. Mr Hood, his football coach had asked
him to join the football team but he lied that he did not like football
anymore. The truth was, he needed to look after Granda. Granda relied on him to
get his lunch and he also had to make sure Granda took his pills. Sometimes, he
rushed home during lunchtime to buy two hot pies for their lunch.
When Granda was hospitalised at Rachnadar, Rory realised that if he left Granda
there, he would be very miserable and sick. He was very frightened when he
visited Granda and he did not respond to him. He was afraid that he would 'be
dead inside'. He decided to run away with Granda in order to save him.
Darren's mother was concerned for Rory. She felt that Rory should not have to
bear this kind of responsibility. However, Rory felt that it was his
responsibility since there was nobody else. Finally, when he found out about
his father, he felt that it was high time he lived up to his responsibility as
a son and father.
Granda
 | - Rory's grandfather - Devoted to his grandson. - Sick and forgetful |
Rory  | - A young boy, still in school who is dedicated to taking care of his aging grandfather. - Shows determination and courage. - Mature. |
Val Jessup  | - A young and eager social worker who is responsible for Rory's well being. - Responsible. - Concerned woman. |
Mrs Foley  | - Rory's teacher. - She is very concerned when Grand was admitted into hospital and realise that Rory should not be in the children's home. |
Themes
1) Family and relationships
2) Growing up / Adolescent
3) Bridging the generation gap
4) Social and civic responsibilities
5) Social bias
