Contents
Chapter 4
Overview
In a "Before" chapter, the perspective shifts to Ella, a middle school student repeatedly sent to the principal. Caught taking another student’s lunch, Ella earns a week of detention while deflecting questions about food at home. Her encounters with Anton and Brittany contrast troublemaker and golden-girl reputations, hinting at deeper social and personal struggles.
Summary
Ella narrates a "Before" scene from the principal’s office, noting it is her sixth visit this year. She is there for taking another student’s lunch and insists it was a mix-up, though she admits internally she rarely brings food. Principal Garber questions whether she has enough to eat at home; Ella denies any problem and claims their refrigerator is full.
Because of her history, Principal Garber assigns Ella one week of detention. Ella accepts the punishment, noting that detention at least provides snacks. Her comments reveal she is cold, watchful, and trying to manage adult scrutiny without exposing her circumstances.
In the outer office, Ella encounters Anton Peterson, a frequent troublemaker with a fresh facial bruise, implying he was in a fight. They exchange barbs and gestures, underscoring their reputations and familiarity with discipline.
As Ella hurries to class, she meets Brittany Carter, a popular, high-achieving classmate being picked up for a dentist appointment. Ella’s envy and Brittany’s effortless poise highlight a stark contrast in status and stability, emphasizing Ella’s isolation and possible unmet needs.
Who Appears
- EllaMiddle school narrator; caught taking another student’s lunch, denies food insecurity, receives a week of detention.
- Principal GarberSchool principal; questions Ella about food at home and assigns one week of detention.
- Anton PetersonFellow student and frequent offender; appears bruised from a fight and trades insults with Ella.
- Brittany CarterPopular, high-achieving classmate; briefly meets Ella while being picked up for a dentist appointment.
- Mrs. KahillTeacher who confiscated the peanut butter and jelly sandwich Ella tried to take.