How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
I'm not bragging when I say that I'm one of the best liars in the world but I got to tell you, Todd was pretty doggone good. It seemed like he knew some of the things I know, the things I think of all the time and try to remember so I don't make the same mistake more than seven or eight times. (2.14)
We're not bragging when we say that we have a few tricks up our sleeves, but we still think that Bud has a great list of life lessons going on in his head. Yes, many of them have to do with lying, especially to adults, in order to save his hide or get what he needs, but we don't hold it against him.
Quote #2
But I can't blame Todd for lying like that, having someone who likes you so much that they think everything you say is the truth has got to be a liars paradise, that might feel so good it could make you want to quit lying. But maybe not, 'cause Todd hadn't quit lying since the second I came to his house. (2.17)
Aww, isn't it thoughtful of Bud to be so understanding toward a big, mean bully? Well, we think Bud shows some real character when he thinks through what it might take to stop lying. Either way, Bud comes off a pretty thoughtful kid here, and he's definitely thinking way more about important things that Todd is.
Quote #3
He said, "But nothing. Line's closed. These here folks are the last ones."
It was time to start lying. If I didn't get any food now I'd have to steal something out of someone's garbage or I wouldn't be able to eat until the mission opened for supper. (6.6-7)
Even though it doesn't work out for Bud, he sure is resourceful. Do you think Bud is right to want to lie to get some food? Or is it a bad idea since he almost gets beaten with a leather strap? And, by the way, what kind of a choice is that for a little kid to have to make?