Comparing Eddie Hickman And Eddie's Life

It is true what Matthew Jacobson stated “behind every young child who believes in himself is a parent who believed first” (Jacobson). Elsie Hickman and Eddie’s father ring truth to this statement. They both are parents from two separate stories, each demonstrate different parenting skills, in return different outcomes for their sons.

Elsie Hickman was the mother of Sonny Hickman in the book, Rocket Boys. Elsie lived in the coalmine district, she was the wife of Homer Hickman who managed the coalmines. Elsie’s vocation involved managing her house, providing loving support to her family, the peacemaker in attempting to keep her family in one a chord. Which proved to be a daily challenge. Her husband created an environment of tension and division

Eddie’s father worked at the pier carnival, as a maintenance man. His career played a major role in this story. Eddie’s father was not defined by his career, however, his son Eddie, allowed this career to be a defining factor in his own life. Eddie’s father worked at the carnival in order to receive a paycheck mainly to support his drinking habits. Eddie’s father was married to Eddie’s mother. Eddie’s father was an alcoholic, dominating the home environment with physical and verbal abuse. Eddie’s mother loved Eddie, attempting several time to intervene in Eddie’s father’ abusive ways, with no success. She too lived in fear. Eddie’s father was determined that Eddie would follow in his footsteps working at the carnival. Every time Eddie wanted to try new things he would say "What? This ain't good enough for you? (Albom, 2003, p. 125). Eddie’s father ruled his family with harsh intimidating words, neglectful tendencies, and physical aggression. Eddie’s father was adored by his son, he neglected to see or care that his son craved his approval. Causing Eddie to grow callous and bitter towards him. Eddie’s father raised his son lacking self-confidence, feelings of worthlessness, and the fear of failure. These were the contributing factors why Eddie did not pursue his own dreams. Eddie’s father did not find fulfillment in his work, or any other area in his