How we cite our quotes: (Section.Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
"Ms. Silver and the great nation of China might think that this is the Year of the Rabbit," said Papa. "But I know—and I know everything—that this is the year of Billy Miller." (1.1.37)
Since this book is all about Billy, it's no surprise that it has us thinking a lot about his identity. Sure, he's only in second grade, but he's already realizing that he's a pretty complex dude. And Papa definitely wants this to be a year chock-full of self-discovery. So when he says that this is "the year of Billy Miller," we're thinking he wants his kid to really focus on growing into his unique second-grader self.
Quote #2
Lately Billy had considered calling Papa "Dad" in public. He wondered if the word Papa sounded babyish. It was one thing for Ned to use it for fun, but another thing for Billy to use it for real. (1.2.19)
Here's the deal: Identity isn't just something that happens inside our heads. It's also something that is seriously impacted by the way others think of us. And lately Billy's been wondering how his identity appears to other folks around town. He sees himself as a full-grown kid and being "babyish" is just about the worst offense ever. Keep an eye out for how using different names for his dad impacts Billy's identity over the course of this tale.
Quote #3
"Maybe one day you'll want to be called something else."
Billy tilted his head. "Huh?"
"Maybe one day you'll want us to call you Bill. Or William."
"No," said Billy. "I'm Billy. Promise to always call me Billy."
Papa tugged on his beard again. "I promise to always call you what you want to be called."
"Billy," said Billy. (2.4.36-41)
Names have a lot to do with identity (more on this over in the "Symbols" section). While it's tough for Billy to imagine wanting a different name, Papa knows that folks change over time, and that means their preferred name can, too. So even though Billy can't see that far into the future yet, Papa is giving us a clue that new names might just be part of growing into a more mature version of yourself.