How we cite our quotes: (Section.Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #4
"Isn't the snow pretty?" asked Gabby. "It's so feathery. Like snow in a movie."
"It's furry," said Billy, staring out the window.
When he'd stepped out of the house, it was as if a curtain of peacefulness had fallen over the neighborhood. It was quiet. The air smelled wet and white. (3.1.25-27)
Winter is peaceful in Constant, Wisconsin, and things are looking pretty placid outside. Check out the adjectives used to describe this new season: "pretty," "feathery," "furry," "quiet," "wet," and "white." How do you think these descriptions work together? Do they paint a picture that is positive? Are there any downsides to this new season?
Quote #5
"Ms. Silver told us about the Year of the Dragon today. The Chinese New Year started on Monday. It's different than our New Year because theirs is lunar, which means the moon," Billy explained. (3.2.12)
When it comes to calendars, we've got a nice variety in this book. And Ms. S has taught Billy about a super cool calendar based on the Chinese New Year. One thing that makes this calendar extra special is that each year is identified with a different animal. What else does Billy learn about the Chinese calendar in this book? And how do you think this calendar helps Billy to think about time differently?
Quote #6
"Wait—you said one more hand."
"Okay," said Gabby. "A quick one."
During their final hand, Billy held back from playing certain cards when he could have won prolonging the game as long as possible. But soon Gabby was the winner and he was off to bed. (3.3.12-14)
Billy has a plan to stay up all night, so he tries to drag out his time with Gabby as much as he can. But this babysitter isn't about to fall for his sneaky tricks. Plus, this isn't the only place where Billy tries to become Master of Time. Can you think of other moments where Billy tries to control the way time passes? And does he ever succeed?