How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
Mickey Cray was barefoot in the backyard with Beulah the python. He was admiring the markings on her skin… (3.64)
One way to develop respect for nature is to love it. Mickey loves to watch and communicate with wild animals, especially snakes. He has had contact with snakes from a young age, and been able to freely explore the creatures and their ways.
Quote #2
"The Crays won't let you lay a finger on Alice," Raven said. […]
"We shall see about that. What sort of people would name a dumb old alligator Alice?"
"The sort of people who treat it like one of the family." (5.21-23)
The first step toward environmental stewardship is loving animals and nature. Derek seems to never have made a close connection with another animal before—otherwise he would know how people feel about pets, and that when you love something/someone, you want to call them by a name.
Quote #3
Grunting and huffing, he rolled back and forth on the ground, shaking Beulah by the neck, trying to provoke her to fight back. (5.90)
Mickey took Derek aside before this scene and showed him how to handle the snake with safety and thoughtfulness, but Derek didn't even listen. It is clear that he doesn't think Beulah has feelings or a right to be treated with dignity.