# How does The Able McLaughlins develop the theme of Family and Community Bonds?

> The Able McLaughlins by Margaret Wilson

## Answer

The Able McLaughlins by Margaret Wilson develops Family and Community Bonds across the chapters the companion marks for this theme.

The McLaughlin clan and their neighbors form a tight-knit community that supports one another through births, deaths, weddings, and crises, though this closeness also brings judgment and obligation.

The family's joyful reunion with Wully, the communal prayer, and the stranger Mr. Knight's kindness highlight the strength of family and neighborly ties.

Wully's errand for his mother and the close ties between the McLaughlin and McNair families highlight the importance of mutual support.

Wully's warm homecoming with his mother and siblings contrasts with Chirstie's isolation; Aunt Libby's presence shows community care.

## Evidence

- [i](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_able_mclaughlins_se/chapters/i.md): The family's joyful reunion with Wully, the communal prayer, and the stranger Mr. Knight's kindness highlight the strength of family and neighborly ties.
- [ii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_able_mclaughlins_se/chapters/ii.md): Wully's errand for his mother and the close ties between the McLaughlin and McNair families highlight the importance of mutual support.
- [iii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_able_mclaughlins_se/chapters/iii.md): Wully's warm homecoming with his mother and siblings contrasts with Chirstie's isolation; Aunt Libby's presence shows community care.
- [vii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_able_mclaughlins_se/chapters/vii.md): The confrontation between Wully and his mother tests their bond, while Isobel's thoughts reveal the family's collective identity and expectations.
- [viii](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_able_mclaughlins_se/chapters/viii.md): Isobel's protective actions and the family's collective response to the scandal highlight the strength and pressure of family ties.
- [ix](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_able_mclaughlins_se/chapters/ix.md): The chapter highlights the strong bonds within the McLaughlin family, as well as the community's involvement in supporting Aunt Libby during her search for Peter.
- [x](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_able_mclaughlins_se/chapters/x.md): Barbara's comforting of Jeannie and the visit between Chirstie and her stepmother illustrate the importance of family connections in mitigating loneliness.
- [xi](https://www.betterreads.dev/discover/the_able_mclaughlins_se/chapters/xi.md): The family rallies around Chirstie and the baby, with Isobel's fierce protectiveness and Wully's acceptance highlighting the strength of familial ties.

## Links

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