Contents
Christopher’s House
Overview
Visiting Christopher’s new house, August overhears his parents debating sending him to Beecher Prep. August rejects the idea, Dad promises not to force him, and Mom argues school would help him. The chapter establishes the looming decision about mainstream school and the parents’ differing approaches.
Summary
August recalls missing Christopher after he moved away, thinking about their old Star Wars games. During a spring visit to Christopher’s house in Bridgeport, August and Christopher search for snacks while their parents talk in the living room.
August overhears Mom discussing him attending school in the fall and confronts her. Mom, surprised, suggests he may be ready; Dad immediately says he is not. August insists he doesn’t want to go, seeking comfort by sitting on Mom’s lap, then Dad’s.
Mom proposes Beecher Prep as a nearby option, while Lisa praises the school. August asks about Via’s school, but Mom says it’s too big. Dad reassures August he won’t be forced into anything, siding with August’s readiness over Mom’s push.
Lisa encourages Mom, saying they will figure it out. August senses an impending argument between his parents. Although he wants Dad to win, he privately admits Mom might be right—and that she is truly terrible at fractions.
Who Appears
- August (Auggie) PullmanProtagonist; overhears plans for Beecher Prep, resists attending, torn between comfort and knowing Mom may be right.
- Mom (Isabel Pullman)Advocates for August to attend Beecher Prep, believes school will help beyond homeschooling, insecure about teaching fractions.
- Dad (Nate Pullman)Supports August’s choice, promises not to force school, opposes rushing him if he isn’t ready.
- ChristopherAugust’s old friend in Bridgeport; hosts the visit while the adults discuss August’s schooling.
- LisaChristopher’s mom; praises Beecher Prep and reassures Isabel they’ll figure things out.
- Christopher’s dadChats with Nate; present during the schooling discussion but remains in the background.