How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
Dad lost his job, so we'd had to give up the apartment. He and Mother were moving into a "light housekeeping" room. They could get it for seven dollars a week, with kitchen privileges, but it was only big enough for the two of them. (P.7)
When Mary Alice's parents move into a tiny room, they have to send her to Grandma Dowdel's to stay until they're all back on their feet financially. It's the only option they have, and it's probably because Mary Alice knows this is true that she goes along with it so easily. It's hard to imagine a modern teenager making such a sacrifice without complaint, isn't it? Or are we being uber-judgey? How would you react in this situation?
Quote #2
Oh, didn't I feel sorry for myself when the Wabash Railroad's Blue Bird train steamed into Grandma's town. The sandwich was still crumbs in my throat because I didn't have the dime for a bottle of pop. (1.1)
Even the trip to Grandma Dowdel's is miserable, and Mary Alice can't help but feel sorry for herself. After all, she doesn't even have enough money to buy a drink on the train. Can you relate? Have you had a similar experience?
Quote #3
"It doesn't matter, and there's plenty of room for you. High school's getting to be a luxury in times like these. So many boys have dropped out entirely, I don't know where I'll find five to play basketball, come winter, or to field the Christmas program." (1.43)
Clearly, Mary Alice's family isn't the only one that's hurting financially. When she registers for school, the principal mentions that high school has become a luxury. A luxury! Is that the way you view high school education?