How we cite our quotes: (Chapter. Paragraph)
Quote #7
And that was it! I expected something else. I don't know what exactly. A feeling, maybe. But I suppose you have to go more than once to know what it's all about. (9.5)
The thing about repeatedly going to church or temple, is that every young character in the book who's done it doesn't seem to give two hoots about God. The only kid character who does is Margaret.
Quote #8
Are you there God? It's me, Margaret. I'm really on my way now. By the end of the school year I'll know all there is to know about religion. And before I start junior high I'll know which one I am. Then I'll be able to join the Y or the Center like everyone else. (9.28)
Margaret's got her eyes on the prize and, in this case, that means she's got a game plan for getting to the bottom of this whole pick-a-religion business.
Quote #9
A week before the pageant Alan Gordon told Mr. Benedict that he wasn't going to sing the Christmas songs because it was against his religion. Then Lisa Murphy raised her hand and said that she wasn't going to sing the Hanukkah songs because it was against her religion.
Mr. Benedict explained that songs were for everyone and had nothing at all to do with religion, but the next day Alan brought in a note from home and from then on he marched but he didn't sing. Lisa sang when we marched but she didn't even move her lips during the Hanukkah songs. (12.7-8)
What does this awkward little incident teach Margaret about religious identity? Also, compare this showdown to the non-religious exchanging of presents that Margaret's family does every year. Which one is more in the holiday spirit?