The Importance of Family

The members of the Barry family are each important to the others in various ways and their importance to each other is at the heart of the story. It could be argued that Franny and John are closer than are the others, but the two of them are also willing and ready to care for the others when the need arises. The truth of this can be seen when they encounter the football players harassing Frank and go to his rescue. The point at which the group is willing to help Franny get revenge on Chip Dove is another example of this, though it takes Susie to remind them that they should do whatever Franny wants rather than trying to take matters into their own hands. Other examples of the importance of family is seen in John's willingness to give up whatever dreams he might...