[3] Focusing on the present boomerang generation and post-2008 recession period, it also deals with varying topics from everyday life and social commentary.
He is constantly rewarded with an unlimited number of temp jobs despite expressing hostility and disdain toward entry-level work, believing himself above the positions he is given.
Despite his gross incompetence outside of the occasional sitcom-inspired put-down, Dustin is presented as a stoic, heroic everyman and inspiration to the reader, who purportedly endures and strives, trying to find financial stability, a sense of vocation, acceptance from his family, and even happiness itself.
Contemporary story arcs also involve Helen exploring relationships with other men after Ed signed up for pole vaulting lessons.
A bit of an overachiever, she tends to follow their father's example in insulting and undercutting Dustin at every possible turn, showing how poor parenting can poison the next generation as well.
Hayden, a precocious seven-year-old kid and next-door neighbor living with his single mother who balances between wisdom and antagonism for Dustin.