Contents
Paging Mr. Tushman
Overview
August visits Beecher Prep to meet Principal Mr. Tushman and unexpectedly begins a school tour. Mr. Tushman treats August warmly, highlighting reading, art, and science electives to ease fears. August is nervous but cooperative, relying on his mom for comfort. The visit marks his first real step toward attending school.
Summary
August arrives at Beecher Prep with his mom, still amused by his dad’s jokes about Principal Tushman’s name. Expecting only a meeting, he is surprised to find Mr. Tushman waiting at the entrance and acting completely normal and kind, which slightly eases his anxiety.
Mr. Tushman greets August directly, kneels to meet his eyes, and mentions what he knows about August: a love of reading, strong art skills, and an interest in science. He speaks about science electives to spark August’s curiosity and normalize the conversation, signaling a supportive environment.
When Mr. Tushman suggests a tour, August realizes he hadn’t been told they would walk the school. Startled but compliant, he takes his mother’s hand instead of Mr. Tushman’s and follows inside. He notes the school feels smaller than Via’s and smells like a hospital, underscoring his unease as the tour begins.
Who Appears
- August (Auggie) PullmanNervous but curious prospective student; meets the principal and begins an unexpected school tour.
- Mr. TushmanBeecher Prep principal; warm, direct, reassures August, mentions electives, and initiates the tour.
- MomAccompanies August, greets Mr. Tushman, provides comfort as the tour starts.