How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
Now the baker's wife did not like children. (1.3)
Not liking children was seen at this time as "unnatural" for a woman—that's why the author uses it as a signal that the baker's wife is bad news.
Quote #2
"Let me try," said Violet. "Now, Benny, you can play that you are a little brown bear and you are running away to find a nice warm bed." (2.10)
When Henry tries to wake Benny, it doesn't go so well, but Violet is much more successful. In the world of The Boxcar Children, all of the nurturing falls to the women. Good luck, ladies.
Quote #3
"Good dog," said Jessie. "I can help you, but maybe it will hurt." […]
"Violet," ordered Jessie, "please wet my handkerchief in the brook." (4.11 and 4.13)
Remember what we said about nurturing being women's work in this book? Well, here's Jessie playing nurse with the dog. She just can't stop when it comes to taking care of others.