How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
Hot tears had drowned April's eyes and painful gulps climbed up her throat. She had hated the hand on her shoulder and she hated Caroline because it was all her fault. She had been all right until Caroline came in—just angry. Mad—mad—mad, but all right. And then Caroline had to come in and make her cry. (13.17)
Even though April knows that her mother is the one who has abandoned her, she still feels irrationally angry at Caroline. She has to take it out on someone—and Caroline is the only person around she can lash out at.
Quote #8
He had rushed Marshall and Melanie into the car and they had driven to the school where their mom taught, and then they had all gone out to dinner. It was an exciting and unusual evening because until Dad got out of school, money was scarce, and they didn't eat out very often. (18.2)
The Ross family may not have a lot of money at their disposal, but they're still a loving, caring family. Melanie and Marshall are always delighted to spend time with their parents, and when they get to do something out of the ordinary, it's even more special.
Quote #9
When April realized that Caroline was crying, she began to cry, too. She hadn't cried at all until then, and she really didn't want to, but when they both stopped crying, the tension was gone and the shaking, and she felt much better. She was suddenly very tired and sleepy. "Grandma," she said, "would you ask them if we can go home now? I'm terribly tired." (21.44)
When Caroline comes to pick April up at the police station, April realizes just how much her grandmother cares about her—and finally willingly calls her "Grandma" (instead of "Caroline") and admits that the apartment they share is truly her home. It's a big moment for April.