In this section of the book, The family has to move once again because of embarrassment. It seems that they have a hard time staying in one place for a long period of time. This time, Sissy decided to “borrow” a tricycle from the neighbors, but the neighbors didn’t really call it borrowing.

They move into a new house and Kate once again moves the tin can bank. It seems that this bank plays a key role in their lives. I think it represents hope for the future. Do you think it is meant to represent anything in particular? Maybe one day being able to afford a house of their own. But if they keep moving so frequently, money will keep having to come out to pay the movers…It also seems that Sissy is a very large part of the children and the families lives. Francie and Neeley seem to love her and Francie really looks up to her as a role model.

Also in this section of the book, it shows Francie’s curious side developing. She watched fascinated from her yard the children playing at recess. She watch as a girl clapped erasers together in the back yard of the school, but wasn’t treated very well by the girl. The girl becomes like a bully figure intriguing Francie and then pushing her away. The girl spits on her and Francie gets upset. I think this might have been one of the first times another kid has acted like a bully towards her.

I am still puzzled as to what meaning the tree has in the story but maybe things will become clearer later on. Anybody have any ideas?

I know I haven’t covered everything in this section so if anyone has any other observations or responses please post them!