How we cite our quotes: (Part.Paragraph)
Quote #4
How can I describe loving Brenda? It was so sweet, as though I'd finally scored that twenty-first point. (3.124)
An odd moment. He's comparing making love to Brenda for the first time with beating Julie at ping-pong. Um…weird. How much does he see Brenda as a mere conquest?
Quote #5
(Neil speaking) "That's it Brenda. Please, no more games," I said, and then when I spoke again I held her so tightly I almost dug my body into hers, "I love you," I said, "I do." (4.83)
Brenda knows that Neil is afraid of losing her—he makes it super obvious. Her game is designed to increase his insecurity and thereby force him to say he loves her. The fact that she feels the need to do this suggests that she is just as insecure as he is.
Quote #6
"As long as you go to school you can have a library card. You could take the book home." (4.119)
His relationship with Brenda aside, Neil seems like a loving guy. His concern that the boy might be deprived of the book is touching and raises sympathy for Neil with most readers. The folks from Reading Rainbow would be proud.