How we cite our quotes: (Part.Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #4
"But if someone doesn't have a summer name and wants to sit with us" she said very seriously, "we'll still let them if they're nice, okay?"
"Okay, I nodded. "Even if it's a winter name."
"Cool beans," she answered, giving me a thumbs up. (1.The Summer Table.32-34)
Kindness is the law of the land at the Summer Table. Both Auggie and Summer know that the best way to combat cruelty is with love.
Quote #5
I sat with him that first day because I felt sorry for him. That's all. Here he was, this strange-looking kid in a brand-new school. No one was talking to him. Everyone was staring at him. […]
It's hard enough being the new kid even when you have a normal face. Imagine having his face?
So I just went over and sat with him. Not a biggie. I wish people would stop trying to turn it into something major.He's just a kid. The weirdest-looking kid I've ever seen, yes. But just a kid. (3.Weird Kids.8-10)
Summer's kindness is so basic to her character she doesn't even regard it as anything out of the ordinary.
Quote #6
I know, I know, I say, soothing her. You're entitled, Olivia. You've dealt with a lot your whole life.
Olivia reminds me of a bird sometimes, how her feathers get all ruffled when she's mad. And when she's fragile like this, she's a little lost bird looking for its nest.
So I give her my wing to hide under. (5.Bird.27-29)
Via is really hard on herself when she admits that she doesn't want anyone at school to know about Auggie, but Justin shows her compassion and kindness. He validates the feelings she is so ashamed of, and his protective hug gives her shelter in the middle of her stormy emotions.