Contents
First-Day Jitters
Overview
On his first day, August is extremely anxious but supported by Mom, Dad, and Via. Dad now champions school while Mom hesitates, yet they all walk together. At Beecher, Mr. Tushman welcomes families. August notices minor whispers but no direct incidents, says emotional goodbyes, and enters the school.
Summary
August wakes consumed by anxiety about starting Beecher Prep. His parents act upbeat, taking photos of him and Via, though August senses their nerves. He recalls that after the tour, Dad became pro-school and praised August’s composure with Julian, while Mom began to second-guess sending him.
The family walks together since Beecher is near their home. August reflects on the comfort of his familiar block and the strangeness of nearby streets filled with unfamiliar people. Turning onto the school’s street, he keeps his head down as they approach the large crowd of students and parents.
Via reassures August that everyone is nervous on the first day. At the entrance, Mr. Tushman greets families. August avoids eye contact; he only briefly catches a few girls whispering before they look away. No one directly confronts him, which eases his fear.
At the doors, Dad and Via give August hugs and encouragement, and Mom fights back tears. To avoid embarrassment, August makes the goodbye quick and slips into the school, committing to face the day.
Who Appears
- August (Auggie) PullmanProtagonist; intensely anxious but determined, enters Beecher Prep after family support and brief exposure to whispers.
- MomEmotional and uncertain about school; walks August to Beecher and nearly cries at goodbye.
- DadEncouraging and proud; praises August’s strength and supports him walking into school.
- ViaReassures August that everyone is nervous; hugs him and says goodbye at the entrance.
- Mr. TushmanBeecher Prep director; greets students and families at the front entrance.