The boy himself is of course a very important character as the whole story is about his life. His mother is also crucial as her actions and decisions greatly impact his life. And his stepfather is an important character too. His stepfather's presence brings a lot of conflict and challenges into the boy's life.
The themes include coming - of - age. As the boy grows up, he experiences many things that force him to mature quickly. There is also the theme of identity. He has to deal with different identities as he moves from place to place and has different family setups. And resilience is a theme too. Despite all the hardships he faces, he keeps on trying to make the best of his situation.
These novels can also enhance a boy's empathy. When reading about the struggles and joys of characters in books like 'Holes', they can better understand the feelings of others. Stanley's situation in the detention center and his friendship with the other boys can teach boys about loyalty and standing up for others.
There is a story where a boy is really into reading. He spends his afternoons in the library, exploring different books. One day, he discovers a rare book that takes him on an amazing adventure through the pages.
The protagonist, of course, is a very important character. His experiences drive the story forward. His father also plays a significant role in his life and growth. And there are his friends, who are important for his social development and the adventures they share.
Well, in 'Boy's Life', friendship is a key theme. The main character forms important relationships that help him navigate through life. Mystery is also there. There are strange happenings in the town which he tries to figure out. And family plays a role too. His family relationships, both positive and negative, influence his development.