Jem unexpectedly shoots Mrs. Dubose's prized camellia bushes with a BB gun. This act of vandalism, fueled by Jem's anger at Mrs. Dubose's harsh words and her disapproval of Atticus's defense of Tom Robinson, has lasting consequences for him.
Jem is forced to read to Mrs. Dubose for several weeks as punishment, during which time he learns a valuable lesson about courage and resilience. This experience becomes a pivotal moment in Jem's development, shaping his understanding of the complexities of the world and the importance of standing up for what is right.
