How does Mr. Jenkins change over the course of the novel, A Wind in the Door?

Mr. Jenkins is initially portrayed as a stern, uncaring and unlovable man. His primary job is ensuring the future of his young charges. Jenkins, however, isn't concerned about the students under his protection, as he is only concerned with enhancing his own ego and reputation. He is fallible and flawed and makes himself feel better by looking down on his students. Whenever Meg is in his company, she feels gawky and ugly, which is how she imagines Mr. Jenkins sees her. Indeed, he does see her in a negative light. It is easier for Jenkins to find fault with Meg since this eases his own low self-esteem and helps him cope with his inner belief that the Murry family is better than he because of their worldly success.

Yet as the story progresses, Meg is forced to seek the positive aspects of Jenkins' character. In order to Name Jenkins and save Charles Wallace's life, she must find a way to love Jenkins despite his flaws. Once Meg begins to see Jenkins in a more positive light, he rewards her kind efforts by living up to her positive expectations of him. He responds to her love in kind, by becoming more loving himself. Through Jenkins' character, the author teaches her youthful readers that the ability to find the good in others helps others to find the good in themselves.