How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
I don't want to be a nuisance to you, but I wish you could tell me how. (19.2)
A vital part of the coming of age story is the hero's mentor. The mentor is the older and wiser one (like Obi-Wan Kenobi or Gandalf) who teaches, guides, and advises the young one. Leigh's got two in this story: Mr. Fridley and Mr. Henshaw. Leigh's not afraid to ask for advice, which is a huge advantage for him. He's not a know-it-all.
Quote #2
If I eat my lunch on the way to school, I get hungry in the afternoon. (21.2)
Self-reflection is something that happens as people grow up. Leigh tries to solve his lunch-thief problem one way, realizes it's not working, and then has to figure out a different approach.
Quote #3
Dad should be phoning any day now. When I said that at supper […] Mom said for me not to get my hopes up, but I know Dad will remember this time. (27.4)
At this point in the story, Leigh still has complete faith in Dad, even though he's been pretty unreliable about phoning. As the story progresses, he gets more realistic about Dad.