HOW DOES COLLINS DAD CHANGE THROUGHOUT THE STORY

When we're introduced to Mr. Craven, he is a mystery. Brooding, he has been devastated by his wife's death and wants nothing to do with his home or his son. Both remind him of his wife...... and he doesn't want to be reminded because it's just too painful. Don't get the idea, however, that this excuses his neglect of his son. Colin becomes exactly what his father envisions.... but he isn't. It's a mind game. Colin's inability to walk, and his emotional tirades are a direct result of being a neglected, selfish, young boy.

Mr. Craven ran away from his responsibilities, and in turn became a miserable man. It's only a dream of his wife, and Mary's influence on his son that make the house a home. His return, and Colin's improved health open a new world for them both.... the world of Colin's garden..... his mother's garden. The two go onto become very close, as the dream, the boy, and the garden open Craven's heart.