Symbolism, Imagery, Allegory
The mall is a new structure that's going up in town. But in this story, it's more than just a place to shop. It's a symbol of how Abby's values clash with her mother's.
Mrs. Coogan, who works in real estate, is handling some of the stores. Abby, on the other hand, is protesting the construction of the mall itself. When Abby is interviewed on the news, she says, "We don't need more stores. We should take better care of what we have" (26.9). At just 11 years old, she's already a hardcore environmentalist. Admit it, you're impressed.
Later, mother and daughter get into an argument:
"Don't you want to save the earth?"
"I want to make a good home for my children, that's what I want."
"Well, I want to make a good world for my children." (26.19-26.21)
Abby makes a good point, and Mrs. Coogan must agree. By the end of the novel, she decides to cut back on her work hours. She seems to have decided she needs to take better care of what she has: her family.