How we cite our quotes: (Section.Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
It was the first day of second grade and Billy Miller was worried. He was worried that he wouldn't be smart enough for school this year. (1.1.1)
Right from the start, we learn that school can be a worrisome place—and it's not any easier with that big ol' lump on Billy's head. In fact, that lump has Billy wondering just how good he'll be at second grade, and whether he'll end up a total failure in the end (cue foreboding music).
Quote #2
After several long strides, Billy heard the joyful, rowdy sounds of his schoolmates, and was drawn to them as if he were being pulled by a strong invisible force. When they reached the edge of the playground, Billy turned around. Papa, Sal, and Amy were more than a block away. He and Ned waved good-bye and then plunged into a noisy group of kids charging around the playground like a pack of dogs. (1.2.26)
Even though Billy is nervous about school, you just can't keep this kid away from the place. When he and Ned arrive for the first day, not only have they ditched their parents, but they're diving straight into the playground, too. What do you think about this contrast between Billy's major nerves and his desire to jump right into school? We're thinking it has something to do with that "strong invisible force" pulling him in.
Quote #3
Billy couldn't concentrate on schoolwork. His mission filled his mind. He wondered when he should put the silver things on Ms. Silver's desk. […]
When she came to Billy's table, she leaned forward and extended the nest across the tabletop as if she were offering a bowl of snacks. Billy's eyes went right to Ms. Silver's chopsticks, which were mere inches from him. Then he tried to catch her eye and smile at her, but she was focused on the nest. (1.5.14, 17)
Sometimes for Billy, school is less about learning the lesson and more about impressing his teacher. Billy is afraid that he accidentally insulted Ms. S—and that's a big no-no in his book—so while he should be focusing on the bird's nest that Ms. Silver is showing the class, all our guy can think about is proving that he's a nice dude. Looks like school is about more than memorization and homework in this book.