Abandonment

There are different forms of abandonment – all of them potentially devastating with long-term, even life-long, suffering. Abandonment emerges as one of the main themes in, “Navigating Early,” which is a story rich in themes. Jack Baker is the 13-year-old protagonist of this adventure drama. He was devastated by the unexpected death of his mother with whom he was very close. Death is the great abandoner; it is final and unforgiving. Everything reminds Jack of his mother and everything brings sadness to Jack because he misses her so.

Unfortunately, Jack was also abandoned by his father in a different sense but one that was just as hurtful. Jack’s father was a naval captain who often treated Jack like a navy recruit instead of a son. He even signed off on a letter to his young son as, “Captain Baker.” Jack’s father had abandoned Jack emotionally...