The cake that Ben eats out of the freezer, along with the ones his mother bakes and buys, and later the one Mrs. Ezra makes, serve as a motif representing the novel’s thematic engagement with Forgiving and Learning From Mistakes. As Mrs. Ezra points out, “Life is full of disappointing cakes, but we get out fresh ingredients and try again, don’t we?” (180). Ben’s consumption of the cake initially causes tension with his parents, yet through his determined efforts to make amends, relationships are not damaged. The novel suggests that mistakes, even messy ones, can lead to growth and understanding. 

The motif also underscores the novel’s exploration of The Courage to Try New Things. Ben’s willingness to attempt baking, despite his inexperience, mirrors his broader approach to life of taking risks, embracing new challenges, and valuing effort over perfection. When Ben eats his father’s cake, believing it is his last day, he sets off a series of chaotic events, including his mother attempting to recreate it, ultimately producing a slimy mess. Despite the failure, the process of baking together allows Ben and his mother to connect and experience joy, emphasizing that the act of trying is more important than achieving flawless results.

The latch hook rug that Janet makes symbolizes links the novel’s thematic exploration of Forgiving and Learning from Mistakes to Janet’s attempts to live life to its fullest. When Ben rushes to finish Janet’s rug, using brown threads instead of blue, it makes Janet cry and try to throw the rug away. The moment allows for a deeper understanding to form between Ben and Janet as she explains that the rug was originally a project of her father’s, left incomplete after his death. Sharing her grief with Ben strengthens their friendship despite her initial hurt. Ben recognizes his error and works to repair the damage by retrieving the rug from the trash and helping Janet work through her emotions. Through Janet’s own wisdom, Ben reminds her that perfection is not the goal, but trying one’s best is. He demonstrates empathy, reflection, and the willingness to take responsibility for his mistakes. In this way, the latch hook rug serves as a symbol for emotional growth and interpersonal understanding, showing that mistakes are part of growing and that effort and care can restore trust and joy in relationships.

In the story, apples function as a multifaceted symbol, representing temptation, perseverance, and friendship. Initially, the apples are associated with risk and fear, as Janet worries about Mrs. Ezra’s cursed apple tree, imagining herself turning into a troll if she tries to take one. Her fears reflect the human tendency to hesitate when faced with the unknown. Ben overcomes his fear and the negative rumors surrounding Mrs. Ezra, showing his willingness to put his friend first.

The apples also symbolize perseverance. Ben climbs the tree and navigates its branches to retrieve the perfect apple, demonstrating determination and the willingness to take action despite obstacles. In the end, the apples become a symbol of friendship and generosity. Mrs. Ezra allows Ben to pick and peel apples with her, sharing both her home and the fruit, and later shares an apple pie with everyone, reinforcing the story’s emphasis on shared connection that leads to a fuller life.