The Forgiver

Jeannette Walls is the second eldest child of Rex and Rose Mary Walls. The novel is told from Jeannette's point of view as a child to when she becomes an adult. Throughout the book Jeannette continously forgives her father for his obvious issues with violence and alcohol. As a child she remains oblivious to his drunken stupors. She believed his wild stories and the tales he told. Once she is a junior in high school she begins to accept her father's problems. There are instances when she could not believe his actions, such as when he took her to a bar and when he stole her and Lori's money. Jenanette resolves to leave Welch and her family behind and follow Lori to New York. But, she remains forgiving even while leaving Welch. Her life in New York is wonderful for her, and her siblings and she attends college and receives a diploma. The last scene with her father provides solace for both Jeannette and Rex. The closing of the novel brings most of the family together for Thanksgiving, a time where Jeannette was content, even happy, with her life.