While Joey Margolis is initially presented as a bright, hyperactive child who drives his teacher to an unplanned leave of absence, he matures and evolves in every way over the course of the story. The beginning of his approach to manhood occurs in 1936, when his father divorces his mother and refrains from remaining in contact with him. Joey’s relocation to a largely Gentile neighborhood, which includes several rabid anti-Semites, results in his being assaulted on an almost daily basis. Nonetheless, he devises stories about the way his injuries occurred in an effort to protect his mother and aunt. He is aware that he must find a way to stop the beatings in order to survive his youth and starts writing his baseball hero, Charlie Banks, hoping that some recognition from this player will elevate his status in the neighborhood.

Another instance of maturation is seen when Joey falls in love with his classmate and future wife, Rachel. He initially seeks “negative attention” (17) from her; however, as he matures, he expresses his deep affection for her in letters. His teacher notes that his behavior improves markedly after Rachel comes to reciprocate his affection.