Henry shows numerous strengths early in Trouble that help him in developing and maturing throughout the novel. As he processes his grief over his brother’s death, a combination of loyalty to Franklin and courage to undertake a challenge prompts Henry to undertake a solo mountain-climbing mission. His innate curiosity also works together with his persistence and determination as he tries to learn what really happened in Franklin’s accident. As he stays the course and continues up Mount Katahdin, the physical and mental aspects of his quest merge. Getting beyond his own limited perspectives, he shows that he is adaptable to changing circumstances.

Henry’s loyalty to his family and especially his older brother, Franklin, inspire him to pay homage to Franklin after he is injured in an accident and then dies. Henry first decides to embark solo on the ascent of Mount Katahdin, but he soon must adapt to participating in a group venture. His own loyalty is echoed in the companionship that his friend Sanborn is determined to provide. As Henry’s sister, Louisa, and another boy, Chay, also join them, Henry’s quest turns into an interior journey of self-exploration along with the physical challenge of the hike.

The adaptability that he shows as he realizes that Louisa and Chay are a couple, which contributed to Franklin’s death, is one aspect of his maturing through this journey. Even more, he shows courage in facing the reality that his loyalty is misplaced, as his brother was not the paragon he idolized.