"The Graduation of Jake Moon" Characters Analysis

List of Characters

Role Identification

Jake Moon is the protagonist of the book "The Graduation of Jake Moon" by Barbara Park. He is a young boy who is about to graduate from elementary school and is dealing with the challenges of having a brother with a brain injury.

Character Descriptions

Jake Moon

Jake Moon is a sensitive and compassionate young boy. He has a close relationship with his brother, Skelly, and deeply cares for him. Jake is described as having curly hair and freckles. He has a kind heart and often feels overwhelmed by the responsibilities of taking care of Skelly.

Skelly

Skelly is Jake's older brother who has a brain injury. He is unable to speak or walk on his own and requires constant care. Skelly is described as having a mischievous smile and a contagious laughter. Despite his disability, Skelly is able to communicate his emotions and brings joy to those around him.

Jake's Parents

Jake's parents are loving and supportive caregivers. They are described as being exhausted from taking care of Skelly but always prioritize their children's well-being. They provide Jake with guidance and help him navigate the challenges that come with having a brother with special needs.

Miss Saunders

Miss Saunders is Jake's teacher. She is dedicated to her students and creates a supportive learning environment. Miss Saunders understands Jake's situation and provides him with extra support and understanding during his difficult times.

Uncle Calvin

Uncle Calvin is Jake's uncle and a source of guidance for him. He is a warm and understanding figure who helps Jake navigate his emotions and cope with the challenges he faces. Uncle Calvin provides Jake with a safe space to express his feelings and offers advice and comfort.

Father Joe

Father Joe is Jake's deceased father. Although he is no longer alive, his presence is felt throughout the book. Father Joe's death has had a significant impact on Jake and his family, and his memory serves as a source of strength and inspiration for Jake.

Mother

Jake's mother is also deceased. Like Father Joe, her presence is felt in the book through memories and the impact she had on Jake's life. Jake reminisces about his mother and the love she had for him and Skelly.

Grandpa

Jake's grandfather, referred to as Grandpa, is also deceased. He had a close relationship with Jake and Skelly and is remembered fondly throughout the book. Grandpa's wisdom and love continue to influence Jake's character and actions.

Character Traits

Jake Moon is characterized by his empathy, responsibility, and resilience. He demonstrates a deep understanding of Skelly's needs and emotions and is always there to support him. Jake takes on the responsibility of caring for Skelly, ensuring his safety and happiness. Despite the challenges he faces, Jake remains determined and resilient, never giving up on his brother or himself.

Skelly is characterized by his joyfulness and ability to bring happiness to others. Despite his disability, Skelly is always smiling and laughing, spreading joy to those around him.

Jake's parents are characterized by their selflessness and dedication to their children. They prioritize their children's well-being above their own and provide them with a loving and supportive environment.

Miss Saunders is characterized by her empathy and understanding. She recognizes Jake's struggles and goes above and beyond to support him academically and emotionally.

Uncle Calvin is characterized by his wisdom and compassion. He serves as a mentor to Jake, offering guidance and understanding during difficult times.

Father Joe, Mother, and Grandpa are characterized by their love and influence on Jake's character. Although they are no longer alive, their memories and values continue to shape Jake's actions and decisions.

Character Background

Jake Moon comes from a loving family but faces unique challenges due to his brother Skelly's brain injury. The book explores the background of Jake's family, including the loss of both parents and the impact it has had on their lives. The death of Father Joe and Mother has left a void in Jake's heart, but their love and values continue to guide him.

Character Arcs

Throughout the book, Jake Moon undergoes a significant character arc. At the beginning, he is overwhelmed by the responsibility of caring for Skelly and feels isolated from his peers. However, as the story progresses, Jake learns to open up about his feelings and seek support from his family and Uncle Calvin. He also gains a better understanding of Skelly's condition and how to care for him effectively. By the end of the book, Jake has grown into a more resilient and empathetic individual, ready to face the challenges that lie ahead.

Relationships

Jake Moon has various important relationships in the book:

• His relationship with Skelly is the central focus of the story. Jake deeply cares for Skelly and takes on the role of his primary caregiver. Despite the challenges, their bond is strong, and Jake learns valuable lessons from Skelly's joyful spirit.
• Jake's parents have a loving and supportive relationship with him. They provide him with guidance and emotional support, helping him navigate the difficulties of having a brother with special needs.
• Miss Saunders, Jake's teacher, plays a crucial role in his life. She provides him with extra support and understanding, helping him academically and emotionally.
• Uncle Calvin serves as a mentor and father figure to Jake. Their relationship is characterized by trust and openness, and Uncle Calvin provides Jake with guidance and a safe space to express his emotions.
• The memories of Father Joe, Mother, and Grandpa play a significant role in shaping Jake's character. He remembers their love and values, which continue to guide him throughout the book.

In conclusion, "The Graduation of Jake Moon" by Barbara Park explores the challenges and growth of the protagonist, Jake Moon, as he navigates the responsibility of caring for his brother with a brain injury. The book delves into the character's traits, relationships, and background, showcasing his resilience and empathy. Through various character arcs, Jake learns valuable lessons and matures into a more compassionate and understanding individual.