Chapter 16

Summary

The story is set in 1944, following Hobie, a young boy whose father is a prisoner of war in Germany. Hobie encounters friends Katherine and Max, and they discuss upcoming school and a final baseball game before the term starts. When Hobie gets home, he receives a postcard from his father, confirming that he is safe. Moved, the family prepares a care package to send to him, complete with homemade items and 'magic milk' to ensure its safe delivery. The scene captures the family's hope and resilience during a difficult time.

Takeaways

• 📅 The scene takes place on August 24th, 1944, as the characters prepare for the upcoming school year.
• 🚲 Hobie sees Max with a satchel of newspapers and Pepper tagging along, just like Duke used to do.
• 🛼 Katherine roller-skates up to Hobie and invites him to one last baseball game before school starts.
• ✉️ Hobie’s mother receives a postcard from Hobie’s dad, who is a prisoner of war in Barth, Germany.
• 📬 Hobie is relieved to learn that his father is not hurt and is being treated fairly in a camp for officers.
• 📚 Hobie references an atlas to locate Barth and realizes how far north it is, worrying about the cold winters.
• 📝 Hobie finds it difficult to write a letter to his dad, but he gains confidence knowing his dad is safe.
• 🎁 The family puts together a care package for Hobie’s dad, including a sweater, candy bars, socks, and a joke book.
• 🥛 Jun insists on everyone drinking 'magic milk' to ensure that their package safely reaches Hobie’s dad.
• 🎨 Jun draws a picture for her dad and believes that their efforts, combined with the magic milk, will help the package reach him.

Q & A

What is the significance of August 24th, 1944, in the script?

August 24th, 1944, marks the setting of the scene, indicating that the events occur during World War II. This date situates the narrative in a specific historical context, particularly around the lives of those affected by the war, such as Hobie’s father being a prisoner of war.

Who is Hobie, and what is he doing at the start of the script?

Hobie is the central character in the script. At the beginning, he is riding home from Mrs. Lee's house with groceries, encountering his friends and discussing upcoming school and social activities.

How does Hobie's relationship with Max seem to have changed?

Hobie notices that Max has been distant, possibly due to his new responsibilities like the paper route. There's a subtle tension or mix-up between the two, indicating that Hobie is feeling the strain in their friendship.

What does Hobie’s mother receive in the mail, and how does it affect them?

Hobie’s mother receives a postcard from Hobie’s father, who is a prisoner of war in Barth, Germany. This news brings immense relief to the family, as it confirms that Hobie’s father is alive, unhurt, and being treated fairly.

What is the significance of the postcard Hobie’s family receives?

The postcard signifies hope and reassurance for the family. Despite being a prisoner of war, Hobie’s father is alive and safe. The card brings a sense of connection between Hobie’s father and the family, even while they are far apart.

What does Hobie struggle with when trying to write to his father?

Hobie finds it difficult to write to his father, feeling the weight of the situation. It’s the first time he’s writing to him as a prisoner of war, and he acknowledges that there are emotional 'hurts' that don’t leave physical bruises.

How does the family respond to the postcard from Hobie’s father?

The family quickly rallies to put together a care package for Hobie’s father. Each member contributes something meaningful—such as socks, candy bars, and a picture—showing their love and support for him.

What is the symbolic importance of the 'magic milk' ritual that Jun initiates?

The 'magic milk' ritual, led by Jun, symbolizes the family’s hope and belief that their father will safely receive the care package. It reflects Jun's innocent faith and the family’s collective wish for their father's well-being.

What is Hobie's emotional state throughout the script?

Hobie feels a mixture of relief, concern, and responsibility. He’s relieved that his father is alive but troubled by the fact that he’s a prisoner of war. He also feels conflicted about his strained friendship with Max.

What does the act of creating the care package represent for the family?

The care package represents the family's love, hope, and efforts to stay connected with their father despite the physical distance and war. It’s a tangible way for them to show they care and to send comfort to him.