In The Bears on Hemlock Mountain, Jonathan’s journey highlights the bonds of family. Jonathan’s mother, father, and other relatives play an important part in the story as they teach him, encourage him, and provide for him. The story shows how Jonathan and his family members share positive, reciprocal relationships, sharing interests as well as practical help.

Jonathan’s large family is a positive part of his life, and he enjoys their companionship. Early on in the story, Dalgleish establishes that “Jonathan [i]s very fond of his uncles. He [i]s fond of his cousins and his aunts. If all his uncles and aunts stood side by side they would go all the way from the house to the gate—or very nearly” (Chapter 2). Young Uncle James is a particularly good playmate for Jonathan on the rural family farm. He is also a positive role model for Jonathan, who looks up to James and enjoys learning from him. James is supportive of Jonathan’s love of animals and nature, something that continually gives him courage throughout the story.

Jonathan’s family relationships also shape his character; he does his best to contribute to the family farm as an eight-year-old.