How is Lois described in the novel, Gypsy Davey?

Lois is a particularly interesting character. The reader is repeatedly told how much she loves Davey, though "she wasn't very good at it anymore." Later we are told: "She did so love Davey, as much as she could." The implication seems to be that Lois knows she is supposed to be a loving mother, but she also knows she's too self-centered and limited as a person to make that commitment.

Although it is true that she provides a home for her son, calls him "sweetie," and gives him "sloppy" kisses, she supplies no nurturing whatsoever, and all that she teaches her kids is "by accident." Despair is evident in Lois as well, especially in the scenes where she lays stricken in bed, staring straight ahead, or sits in the window seat staring at the rain.