can anyone answer these questions?

1) "This novel is signified by a boy going through a rite of passage into adulthood. After David's father passes away, the protagonist strikes out on his own into the world at large. A loss of innocence theme results because of the growth from youth to manhood, a path to maturity through obstacles which will have to be overcome. These challenges and the realization toward their solutions is symbolic of a young adult's progress toward an adult understanding." (1)

2) silver buttons, Alan's illness, tartans, clothing