Friendship and Acceptance
What This Theme Explores: In Wish, Barbara O'Connor delves into the transformative power of friendship and acceptance, particularly for those who have experienced familial instability. The novel follows Charlie Reese's journey as she learns to trust others and open herself up to genuine connection. Initially guarded and defensive, Charlie gradually discovers that true friends accept her, flaws and all, and that this acceptance is a catalyst for healing and finding a place to call home. The theme explores how chosen relationships can provide the stability and love that families sometimes lack.
Development of Friendship
Charlie's journey toward embracing friendship is marked by a gradual shift from isolation to deep connection. Initially, her "fiery red temper" and emotional walls prevent her from forming bonds with others. She views her peers with suspicion, labeling them as hostile "hillbilly kids." However, the persistent kindness of Howard Odom and the welcoming nature of his family slowly chip away at her defenses, revealing the true meaning of friendship.
As the story progresses, several key moments highlight Charlie's evolving understanding of friendship:
- Initial Resistance: On her first day, Charlie rebuffs Howard's friendly gestures, viewing his role as her "Backpack Buddy" as an annoyance. This illustrates her initial reluctance to trust and her tendency to push people away.
- Shared Vulnerability: A turning point occurs when Charlie shares her "troubles" with Howard after yelling at Bertha. His simple, non-judgmental response begins to build a foundation of trust, demonstrating the power of vulnerability in forming connections.
- Becoming a Team: After Charlie insults Howard by calling him a "squirrel-eating hillbilly," Mrs. Odom diffuses the situation with humor and warmth, welcoming Charlie onto her "team." This moment signifies the Odom family's unconditional acceptance and Charlie's growing sense of belonging.
- Loyalty and Defense: Charlie's growth is evident when she defends Howard from bullies at Vacation Bible School. This act solidifies her identity as a true friend, willing to stand up for those she cares about.
By the end of the novel, Charlie fully embraces her role as Howard's friend, moving from being the recipient of kindness to the giver. She recognizes the Odoms' home as a place of safety and acceptance, and her friendship with Howard becomes a central pillar of her new life.
The Essence of Acceptance
Acceptance is portrayed as a transformative force in Charlie's life, enabling her to shed her defensive exterior and embrace vulnerability. The Odom family, in particular, embodies this theme, offering Charlie a haven where she can be herself without fear of judgment. Their acceptance extends beyond mere tolerance, actively embracing Charlie's quirks and flaws.
Mrs. Odom put her arm around my shoulder, and when I got up my courage to look at her, she winked at me. “I’m so glad to have a feisty female around here to help me keep these boys under control. I been needing a girl on my team.”
This quote exemplifies the Odoms' inclusive nature, highlighting their willingness to welcome Charlie into their family dynamic and make her feel valued. Their acceptance empowers Charlie to confront her past and build a more positive future.
Character Connections
- Charlie Reese: Charlie is the central figure in this theme, her character arc defined by her transformation from a lonely, angry girl to someone capable of giving and receiving friendship. Her bond with Howard teaches her that she is worthy of acceptance, challenging her deeply ingrained belief that she is unwanted.
- Howard Odom: Howard embodies unconditional friendship, offering Charlie unwavering support and kindness without expecting anything in return. He accepts her anger and "troubles" without judgment, providing the stable, supportive peer relationship she has never had.
- The Odom Family: As a unit, the Odoms represent a community of acceptance, their chaotic, loving home serving as a safe haven for Charlie. Mrs. Odom, in particular, models warmth and inclusion, making Charlie feel like she belongs.
Symbolic Elements
Several symbolic elements reinforce the theme of friendship and acceptance:
- The Backpack Buddy: What begins as a formal school assignment evolves into a powerful symbol of Howard's unwavering friendship. He takes the role seriously, using it as a reason to persist in being kind to Charlie, ultimately transforming the title into a genuine bond.
- The Odoms' House: The messy, lively Odom house stands in stark contrast to the quiet, dark home Charlie left in Raleigh. It symbolizes a place of warmth, energy, and unconditional acceptance, where children's artwork covers the walls and a guest is always welcome.
- Wishbone: The stray dog Wishbone, who is also an outsider, mirrors Charlie's journey toward acceptance. Just as the Odoms welcome Wishbone into their home, they welcome Charlie into their lives, offering her a sense of belonging and unconditional love.
The most poignant symbol of the theme is Howard's wish:
“’Cause that was the other part of my wish,” he said. “That day at the creek. I wished that you would be my friend and stay here in Colby.”
By wishing for Charlie to be his friend and stay in Colby, Howard demonstrates that their connection is the most valuable thing to him. It validates their entire journey and shows that friendship is a powerful, wish-worthy force.
Contemporary Relevance
The need for connection and acceptance is a universal human experience, making this theme deeply relevant today. In a world often divided, Wish champions the idea that kindness and acceptance can build bridges and change lives. The story serves as a poignant reminder to look beyond surface-level behavior and offer empathy to those who may need it most. Many children navigate complex family dynamics, and Wish underscores the critical role that friends and community play in fostering resilience and emotional well-being. The novel reminds us of the importance of creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels valued and accepted for who they are.