And Then, Boom!

Food insecurity shapes nearly every aspect of Joey’s life throughout the novel, functioning as both a literal struggle and a symbolic representation of his instability. From the earliest chapters, Joey and his grandmother live with a constant awareness of scarcity, as demonstrated when they refer to “the outtas” (77), the various items that they have run out of. The humorous term reflects Grandmum’s attempt to provide a little levity and shield Joey from the ever-present challenges of poverty. Despite her efforts, Joey develops a keen sense of how to ration food, budget his government benefit card, and plan meals based on available resources. These are adult responsibilities, but Joey assumes them out of necessity, and his efforts show that poverty prematurely accelerates children’s entrance into adulthood and denies them a chance to enjoy a more conventional childhood.

Joey’s home situation intensifies after Grandmum dies and his mother abandons him. With no money or adult support, Joey’s food insecurity deepens into outright starvation, and his daily routines become entirely focused on survival. He begins dumpster-diving, eating dog food, and desperately stretching minimal supplies to feed himself and his dogs. In this state, Joey can no longer think ahead, set goals, or ask for help.