How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
For the first time I could recall, I was alone. (2.3)
Gulp. Do you remember the first time you were ever alone? And come to think of it, is Abilene talking about being alone physically or emotionally? Either way, we'd say that her time alone helps her grow up. (Though we'd probably recommend some parental supervision along the way.)
Quote #2
I'd been in and out of schools before, but I'd always been in the protective shade of my daddy. Here I was alone and exposed to the heat and clamor of the day. (4.10)
Abilene's dad couldn't go with her to school, even if he was in the same town—but it's different this time. Knowing that her dad isn't around totally changes the way she feels. It's like everything is a little less safe.