Left In Darkness by David Caballero

Thesis

dcaballe3 — 2024-05-10 18:05:19 UTC

"The Birthday Party" by Gina Berriault is a story of a seven-year-old boy who is often neglected. Unfortunately, many kids have absent parents at such a young age. This is setting the child up for unhealthy mental health which is undeserving for any child.

Image from Padlet

The Boy

dcaballe3 — 2024-05-10 18:25:03 UTC

While we do not know his name, the boy is the main character. He is seven years old and is experiencing abandonment from his mother. He often wonders where his mother is, and is confused.

Image from Padlet

The Mother

dcaballe3 — 2024-05-10 18:34:52 UTC

Our first introduction to the mother is her on the way out at night and her son is wondering why. It is revealed she is in a unhappy love affair, and going to see a guy. She could be seen as scandalous yet very mistreated or misunderstood.

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The Grandma

dcaballe3 — 2024-05-14 18:41:08 UTC

The grandma is referred to multiple times in the book because she might be a better caregiver to the boy than his own mother. Towards the end of the book, she is even questioning and upset at her daughter for the mistreatment of the boy.

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"The Mother"s House

dcaballe3 — 2024-05-14 18:51:39 UTC

This is where the first part of the story takes place, within the home of the mother and the boy. We see some detail in the mother's room described as untidy with an ashtray and cigarette butts all over the room.

Image from Padlet

Grandma's Home

dcaballe3 — 2024-05-14 19:11:53 UTC

Although we do not have a good description of the home, it is a better environment for the boy and grandma seems to be well put together.

Image from Padlet

Most Important Events

dcaballe3 — 2024-05-14 19:27:15 UTC

1. Boy wakes up to mom leaving

2. Boy runs into mother's bedroom

3. Mother says the boy is mature enough to be alone

4. Mother mocks kid

5. Boy prepares for a party

6. Boy buys a gift for Molly

7. We meet Grandma

8. Boy remembers when mother left

dcaballe3 — 2024-05-17 19:26:25 UTC

Reading

dcaballe3 — 2024-05-17 19:38:59 UTC