The Ear, the Eye, the Arm Family Quotes

How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)

Quote #1

Father approved of them because they taught the virtues most revered by the people of Zimbabwe: loyalty, bravery, courteousness and reverence for Mwari, the supreme god. (1.21)

Tendai might be describing the values the Scouts teach kids, but these are also the ideals the General wants to instill in his children. It seems like he cares more about loyalty, bravery, and reverence in his house than he does about warm and gushy things like love, compassion, and empathy.

Quote #2

The villagers waited patiently as the sun painted the dawn clouds over Resthaven, and gradually Tendai became aware that all was not right with the situation. Surely, if the chief had just had an heir after years of waiting, people would be rejoicing. They weren't. (22.11)

Pass around the cigars and bust out the "It's a boy" balloons, because the chief just had a baby. Wait a minute—no one seems all that thrilled. Tendai knows something is wrong, but he's just not sure what yet. Babies are valued in Resthaven because they represent the future generation, but evil twins aren't shown much love.

Quote #3

She burst into sobs. He rocked her back and forth as she wept. He knew this wasn't how a traditional brother treated his sister, but he was thoroughly sick of village ways. (22.54)

Tendai can tell Rita needs him right now. She's had a tough time in Resthaven, and she needs to let it all out. The best person to help her with this? Her older bro, of course. When it comes down to it, these two love and care about each other, and even Tendai can tell that Rita has a right to be upset.