The Unlikely Hero of Room 13B

Adam explains that his OCD is related to entrances and doorways. He has learned that “it was the power of wanting the in to be different that held him captive on the out” (36). He’s incapable of entering a new room or building until he performs certain rituals, and he fears that if he doesn’t do them correctly, then something bad will happen to his loved ones.

No one has come over to Adam’s house since his dad left. Adam always has to go to his friend Ben’s house across the city. His mom, named Carmella Ross, doesn’t drive anymore, making it more difficult to see his friend. When the phone rings during dinner that night, Carmella answers.

Adam’s stepmother Brenda Ross is calling because his younger half brother Wendell, nicknamed Sweetie, is distressed and wants Adam. After hanging up the phone, Carmella says she doesn’t understand how Adam helps Sweetie so much. Adams asks if maybe he made Sweetie crazy because of the way he is, referring to his OCD and anxiety. Carmella assures him that it isn’t true and they aren’t crazy. She says Adam helps provide a weird “feel better” gift for Sweetie.