The Wonder Years was broadcast from 1988 to 1993, and was one of my
favourite programs.
The adult voice of Kevin Arnold, played by Fred Savage, tells about
growing up in the 1960’s, an interesting time. The series starts with Kevin being 12 years old and follows him through his teenage years.
The show was mostly a character study of Kevin and his friends and family. We see his relationships
deepen and change, and we really get to know many of the characters through
their relationship with Kevin.
Kevin has an older brother and sister, and a hardworking dad and stay at home mom.
The family conflicts are portrayed in an honest and open way, and sometimes it’s almost painful to watch.
Kevin has been in love with next door neighbour Winnie forever, but their relationship goes through many
changes and problems. At first they are friends, then boyfriend and girlfriend, then enemies. Near the end of the
series they come back together again, and we hope for happily ever after for them.
Kevin’s best friend Paul is a unique character. He starts out geeky, but develops into a pretty cool guy.
The Wonder Years deals with serious subjects, but always manages to maintain a sense of humour and delight. It’s really a one of a kind type of television series.