In her book "Wilderness Tips," Margaret Atwood emphasizes the idea that certain types of challenging experiences can significantly contribute to a young boy's development. While roughing it can promote resilience and character building, not all forms of hardship are equally beneficial. It suggests that the environment and type of challenge matter in shaping a person's growth.

Atwood implies that the right kind of challenges can teach valuable life lessons, instilling qualities like strength and perseverance. However, one must be discerning about the experiences that promote true character development, highlighting the importance of context and the nature of those experiences in nurturing maturity and understanding.