Week 1- Entry B

I really like the main character, Miles, in Empire Falls. He is a middle aged man that acts more like a child than an adult. He's confused, stressed, and worried about his future. He was promised a long time ago that Empire Grill, a diner restaurant, would be given to him after the death of the owner. The will may be changed by now, so he doesn't know if this is still the plan. The only reason that he sticks around Empire Falls, Maine is because he thinks he will someday own the diner. He finds reassurance in this restaurant that hardly makes any money because he has been working there since he was in high school. He knows his town and his job and is scared of the rest of the world. Last week, Miles and his daughter Tick visited The Vineyard in California where everyone is beautiful and rich. They both adored it there, and Tick even wanted to move there, but I don't think Miles wanted that. He did like the change of scenery, but I don't think he's a strong enough man to move away from the familiarity of Empire Falls.

He is also very unsure and uncomfortable with himself. During his marriage to Janine, he felt happy enough, but everyone else realized the marriage wouldn't work. Even Janine was unhappy with the arrangement, but Miles just didn't get it. Only after splitting up did he realize that it wasn't right. I don't think he's completely gotten over Janine, however, because he makes excuses for her constantly. Because he can't figure out his own emotions, Miles doesn't know who he is.

Miles acts like a teenager in so many ways. I like reading about him, because I feel like I can relate. He doesn't act like most adults in books who always have the answers and are the guides to children. He needs help as he is struggling through a rough patch in life.