How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
His first impulse was to denounce Mrs. Horsepool-Worthingham as a traitor. That is what Rita would have done. But first impulses weren't always wise. (30.43)
Finding out that the Mellower's mom is just keeping them for the ransom money cuts Tendai to the core. He wants to make a big scene, complete with stomping and flailing, but he's learned enough to know that might not be the wisest approach. Sometimes, stopping and coming up with a plan is more effective than reacting quickly.
Quote #8
"The point is, at every turn the children have behaved with courage and intelligence. I'm sure they'll keep on doing it." (34.38)
If you think about it, Arm is right: The kids aren't that wise when it comes to the ways of the world. If anything, they are naïve. Yet somehow they make smart decisions and manage to outsmart their captors time and again. You go, kids.
Quote #9
Tendai remembered his last birthday. It seemed one shouldn't make wishes idly. Who knew which spirits were listening? (40.46)
At the beginning of the novel, Tendai is self-centered and immature, and all he can think about is going on an adventure. By the end, he's grown older and wiser. Yes, he's only fourteen, but he knows he shouldn't waste a birthday wish any more because it might help him out later.