Who Is Jay Hunter In The Falls By Eric Strengths

Confidence is generally the path towards survival and maturity. Therefore, teenagers have to face the hurdles that they come across in their lives without fear. In the novel The Falls by Eric Walters, the main character, Jay Hunter displays three distinct characteristics: curiosity, confidence, and friendliness. These characteristics lead to self-discovery and growth.

Initially, Jay does not know his past because he lost his dad at a very young age. Meanwhile, he has to deal with his alcoholic mother and he faces many family dilemmas. Therefore, he does not receive an opportunity to learn his past or family history. One day, his mother and Jay have an awkward conversation about their past and in curiosity, Jay interrogates on his dad, “Well…

To find his past and sculpt his future, he faces many struggles with confidence. For example, he yells at Candice’s dad when he is threatened by him, “I’m not the one who had a baseball bat because he wasn’t brave enough to face me without one,” (p.9). This explains how fearless Jay is and his readiness to fight a huge man with weapons in order to prove that he is not a loser. He is never hesitant to put himself at risk. Additionally, he is well aware of his ambition. He does not allow anyone to insult his goals or to restrict him from achieving those. For instance, he becomes upset when Timmy makes fun of Jay’s dream career, to become an engineer. Without any further delay, he frustratedly demands, “And what doesn't make sense about becoming an engineer?” (p.19). Certainly, these words by Jay proves his determination towards his passion and success. Later, he also makes his best friend, Timmy feel confident about his skills and his future. Towards the end of the story, Jay Hunter becomes the most confident person he has ever been. He finds his way to become an engineer, regardless of where he lives. After Boomer’s advice, he is certain that he is going to succeed. With tremendous confidence, he assures Boomer, “Probably. But this way, I know I’m going to make it” (p.319). This becomes the perfect answer to Jay’s hopeless life in Niagara Falls, that he assumes he is

He shows friendliness to Timmy, Boomer, Mrs.Baylis and other people in his neighbourhood who do unexpected favours in return. For example, Boomer offers a job to Jay and says, “Some evenings and weekends. Minimum wage. You could keep an eye on your Barrel too.” (p.192). This job offer helps Jay to discover the great achievements of his great-grandfather. He understands his talents clearly by working for Boomer. For example, he constructed shelves and display cases. Besides, he definitely benefits from the money he earns because he does not require the allowance from his mother. On the other hand, Timmy is always with Jay because Jay is reliable and they mutually help each other. They help each other socially, financially and in school. When Timmy feels uncomfortable and difficult to live with his dad Jay consoles Timmy, “You don't even have to ask. You always have a place to go, man, you should know that without even asking. Anytime” (p.231). Jay’s reassurance relieves Timmy. Likewise, Timmy never denies to help Jay. In other words, one day, Jay decides to go over the Falls and reveals it to Timmy. Even though, Timmy is unhappy of this, he appreciates Jay’s confidence and provides a place to design his plan confidentially because Jay gave a share of the money he made by selling the old barrel. Timmy appreciates Jay's generosity, “Man, you’re such a good friend” (p.166). This proves their genuine