How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
"I was thinking maybe if we faced Mr. Curtain and his Whisperer together, we could figure out what to do." (32.81)
Up until this point, the kids had been thinking that maybe Reynie and Sticky could foil Mr. C's plans when they got into the Whispering Gallery, or that maybe Kate could sneak in and smash the computers, or that maybe Constance… well, we don't think anyone ever really thought Constance would be the one to disable the Whisperer, but the point is, this is the first time someone has suggested that the only way to beat Mr. Curtain is for all of them to face him together.
There's strength in numbers, after all. Plus there's the fact that each of the children has different strengths, and having them all assembled in one room can't hurt.
Quote #8
With perfect clarity he remembered Reynie saying, "I need you here as a friend." The effect of those words, and of all his friendships, had grown stronger and stronger, until [… Sticky] knew it to be true. There was bravery in him. It only had to be drawn out. (34.92)
Go, Sticky, go. This is one of those awesome moments in the book when, if you're anything like Shmoop, you may find yourself with a little sniffle or a sudden need for a tissue. Having community in his life—solid friends who depend on him and believe in him—makes a huge difference for Sticky. It helps him to find his confidence and it helps him to persevere at a time when, if there was no one in his corner, he might be inclined to give up.
Quote #9
It occurred to Kate to leave [Constance] behind. […] The plan had called for all four of them. That was what Mr. Benedict had said mattered most, and it was what they'd agreed upon only yesterday. […] No way would she be the one to mess it up. (35.13)
Even at this point Kate isn't sure how Constance's presence could possibly be helpful. She just knows that they're a team and that it's all for one and one for all. And you know what? That's enough. Sometimes it doesn't matter why you do the right thing—it only matters that you do it.