To begin, this book overcomes others because of its different representations of family. This novel tells about the drastically different family lives of two boys. Although Reuven Maulter lost his mother long ago, he and his father share a tight bond. In the novel, readers observe the late night conversations between father and son, and the tender displays of care between them. It is a wonderful relationship that they share, however, this type of relationship is foreign to Danny Saunders. Danny Saunders lives estranged from his father for most of his boyhood; this is all he knows of family. Clearly, this book covers many types of families and in doing so, intrigues the readers. …show more content…
In this novel, both Danny and Reuven undergo many trials. First, the readers watch as Danny’s father forbids his friendship with Reuven. Silence envelopes their friendship, causing pain and loneliness. During this period of silence between the friends, readers learn that Reuven’s father had a stroke, leaving Reuven more secluded and alone. This time of friendship proved gruesome for both boys. Obviously, this novels stories of hardship compel compassion and draw the attention of the