How we cite our quotes: (Section.Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
Later, when the students were writing and drawing in their new journals, Emma said to Billy, "Maybe you should write that you're in second grade so you don't forget."
Billy took two red markers from the bin in the middle of the table. Using both hands, he held up the markers on his head as if they were the fiery horns of a devil. Then he stared at Emma with the meanest expression he could manage. (1.3.24-25)
Let's be real: Billy doesn't have a ton of compassion for Emma at the start of this book. And she feels the same about him. In fact, they seem to hate each other from the get-go. We've got a feeling it's not going to be an easy road for these two, and it'll take some major changes for them to start acting nicely. And maybe some good old-fashioned bribery.
Quote #2
His plan was to leave the silver items on Ms. Silver's desk. The gifts would be a way to show her that he was a nice person. He didn't think he could find the words to explain to her what he'd been doing with the red markers. He hoped this gesture would take care of the situation. (1.5.3)
When Billy is worried that he's accidentally insulted Ms. Silver during class, he needs to find a way to prove that he's a good dude. And stat. But even though he wants to earn his teacher's forgiveness, this guy is also looking for a way that doesn't require much in the talking department. So Billy's hoping that some silver doodads will show Ms. S that he's a nice bloke with a good ol' heart.
Quote #3
Ms. Silver took the items and held them in both hands the way she'd held the nest. "Are these for me?" she asked.
Billy inclined his head shyly and softened his voice to a whisper. "I'm really a nice person," he said. He couldn't look at her but he could feel her eyes upon him like a net. His heart was thrumming.
"I can tell you're a nice person," she said.
Billy sighed.
"A very nice person."
Billy felt great relief. (1.5.41-46)
Since Billy's been hoping that his silver gift would let Ms. Silver know he's a kind guy, you can bet he's happy when it works. Huzzah. Plus, Ms. S seems like a seriously compassionate lady—if she was insulted when Billy teased Emma, then she sure isn't holding it against Billy one bit.