Horton Hatches the Egg Lines 190-195 Summary

Custody Battle

• As the egg is hatching, Mayzie's maternal instincts return in full force. She accuses Horton of stealing the egg and orders him out of her tree.
• Whoa.
• Without even putting up a fight, but "[w]ith a sad, heavy heart" (195), Horton retreats from the tree.
• So sad.
• Just to add some suspense, here's a brief history snack for you: Horton Hatches the Egg is often cited in papers and articles on family law involving adoption, surrogate parents, sperm and egg donors, and the rights of children. Check out our discussion of "Meaning" for more on all that.