The book continues to contrast Jared’s childlike qualities with those that show how mature he is. In some ways, Jared still enjoys more innocent aspects of life, like having spaghetti and moose meatballs prepared for him because Mrs. Jaks knows it’s his favorite. But in other ways, prompted by having adults in his life who deeply need his help, Jared is much more mature: he helps with the housework, watches Mr. Jaks, and even offers to get Mrs. Jaks medical marijuana. All of these actions suggest Jared’s sense of responsibility to care for the Jakses, a quality that he’s developed simply to survive life with irresponsible parents.