The Pagoda
The pagoda is a large structure in the town that's supposed to signify wealth and a bright future—which is the exact opposite of what it does. Oops. Instead, it's just a big old gaudy reminder of...
Charlie's Tree House
When Charlie is fourteen, he builds a tree house from scratch. He spends a great deal of time looking for the exact right tree, and finally settles on the Master Oak and draws out detailed floor pl...
The Animals at Zimmerman's Pet Shop
Since she was a kid, Vera has had a deep connection to the animals at Zimmerman's Pet Shop. It's not just because she likes cats and dogs; her empathy for the animals grows once her mother leaves t...
Alcohol
Like plenty of other teenagers, Vera is drawn by the allure of alcohol. She starts drinking a lot after Charlie's death. She's not just doing it to have fun or party, though, she's using it as a co...