Duke Chapter 9

Summary

In 1944, a young boy named Hobie receives a letter from his father expressing pride in his bravery for loaning their dog Duke to the war effort. Hobie struggles with guilt over secretly sending letters to a soldier about Duke's squirrel-chasing habit. After a model plane accident, his grandfather helps repair it. Hobie befriends Max, whose grandfather fixes the plane. Despite the distance, Hobie's father's letters continue to uplift him, and he learns a soldier is taking Duke to California, ensuring his safety.

Takeaways

• 📅 The story takes place on April 24, 1944, during World War II.
• 📨 Hobie receives a letter from his father, who praises him for being brave by loaning Duke, their dog, to the war effort.
• 😟 Hobie struggles with guilt about writing letters to Private First Class Corp, expressing selfish desires to have Duke back.
• 🍽️ At dinner, Hobie feels conflicted and disconnected, even though his mom serves his favorite meal.
• 📖 To distract himself, Hobie reads a Green Lantern comic, contemplating bravery and responsibility.
• ✈️ Hobie finishes building a B-24 model plane and is praised by his teacher, Mrs. Thornton, who asks him to present it at school.
• 🤕 The model plane is accidentally broken by a classmate, Mitch, but Max's grandfather helps repair it in his workshop.
• 🍪 Despite initial reluctance, Hobie and his sister June bond during their visit to Max’s house, and Hobie realizes Max could be a new friend.
• 📬 Hobie receives another letter, this time from Private First Class Corp, assuring him that Duke is disciplined and ready for California.
• 😔 The letter brings a mix of emotions for Hobie, as he is relieved that Duke is safe but still feels the weight of the war.

Q & A

What is the significance of Hobie's father's letter to him?

Hobie's father's letter is significant because it expresses pride in Hobie's bravery for loaning Duke, their dog, to the war effort. The letter also highlights the importance of being selfless and brave in small ways, not just in grand gestures.

Why does Hobie feel conflicted about his actions related to Duke?

Hobie feels conflicted because, while his father praises his bravery for sending Duke to the war effort, Hobie secretly regrets the decision. He feels guilty about writing letters to Private First Class Corps, hoping Duke would be returned home, which he sees as a selfish act.

What is the role of Duke, the family dog, in the story?

Duke, the family dog, was loaned to the military as part of the war effort. His absence plays a symbolic role, representing sacrifice and bravery. Hobie's attachment to Duke also causes him internal conflict as he wrestles with wanting Duke back while knowing his contribution is important.

How does Hobie react to the chipped beef on toast dinner?

Hobie pretends to be fine when asked by his mom, but he struggles to eat the meal, which tastes like glue to him. His lack of appetite reflects his emotional distress over his guilt and worries about Duke and his father's opinion of him.

Why is Hobie’s interaction with Mrs. Thornton significant?

Mrs. Thornton plays a pivotal role in encouraging Hobie’s sense of accomplishment when she praises his model airplane. Her compassion is revealed when she shares her own emotional burden, missing her husband who is also away due to the war.

How does Hobie feel about his friendship with Max by the end of the story?

Hobie begins to see Max as a true friend, even though Max is quieter and different from his other friends like Scooter. This realization marks an important shift in Hobie's understanding of friendship, appreciating different types of relationships.

What does Hobie learn from the experience with the broken model plane?

Hobie learns about trust, forgiveness, and teamwork when Max’s grandfather repairs the broken model. Although initially upset, Hobie accepts Max's help and gains a new understanding of friendship and support from others.

How does the theme of family appear in the script?

Family is a central theme, with Hobie's strong bond with his father, sister, and mother influencing his actions. His father's pride in him, his mother's guidance, and his sister June's presence all shape Hobie's journey as he navigates responsibility and personal growth.

What is Hobie's internal struggle regarding his father's expectations?

Hobie struggles with whether his father would still be proud of him if he knew about the letters he sent, asking for Duke to return. He worries that this desire to have Duke back is selfish, conflicting with the bravery his father praised.

What message does Hobie receive from Private First Class Corps at the end of the script?

Private First Class Corps reassures Hobie that Duke is doing well, disciplined, and even heading to California, far from the dangers of the war. This message provides Hobie with some relief, knowing that Duke is safe.