Quote 1
"Don't drown in self-pity," Edwin said. "You have more than most people. There's a whole box of your mom's letters waiting for you back in Drake. She knows you can't have mail, but she still writes every couple of days anyway." (24.28)
Though Cole's relationship with his father hasn't changed by the end of the book, things have definitely gotten better with his mom. She tries to be more present in his life…even when he's away on the Alaskan island.
Quote 2
Cole tried to pull away, but Edwin gripped him like a clamp. "You aren't the only creature here. You're part of a much bigger circle. Learn your place or you'll have a rough time." (2.21)
The whole reason Cole almost dies in his first stint on the island is because he doesn't realize that he has to respect the other creatures who are sharing the world with him. He's terrible to them—which is why Spirit Bear attacks him.
Quote 3
Edwin turned to Cole. "Nobody's going to babysit you here. If you eat you'll live. If not, you'll die. This land can provide for you or kill you." He pointed into the forest. "Winters are long. Cut plenty of wood or you'll freeze. Keep things dry, because wet kills." (2.15)
When Cole first arrives at the island, he doesn't take Edwin's warning seriously. He thinks that he can totally handle the savagery of the natural world…but he's soon proven wrong.
Quote 4
"Patience, gentleness, strength, honesty," Edwin said. He looked up in to the trees. "Animals can teach us more about ourselves than any teacher." (2.22-23)
Cole doesn't believe in anyone or anything, but Edwin knows that spending some time on the island will change things for the boy. If Cole watches and observes the animals and plants around him, he'll learn some deep lessons.
Quote 5
Edwin looked out across the bay and drew in a deep breath. "Years ago, I was brought here myself when my spirit got lost. This is a good place to find yourself." (2.28)
Even though Cole feels like he can't identify with the adults in his life, they're more similar than he knows. After all, Edwin and Garvey were both delinquent youth, too, once—they just underwent transformations into responsible, caring adults.
Quote 6
Edwin pulled out a key and turned Cole roughly around to remove his handcuffs. "Anger keeps you lost," he said, as he started back toward the shelter. "You can find yourself here, but only if you search." (2.30)
When Cole first reaches the island, Edwin and Garvey both tell him that this is the perfect place to find himself and become a better person. Too bad he doesn't take that advice to heart the first time around.
Quote 7
Edwin shrugged. "After he was arrested, his lawyer got him released the same day. He never spent a single night in jail." (21.29)
Cole and his mother might both change after his near death experience, but it looks like his dad is still the same old jerk. He won't apologize to his son…or even take the punishment for it.