[Post B Week 2]

LETTER TO THE MAIN CHARACTER:

Dear Katie,

This part of the book has been the hardest for you by far, because of Esau's sickness and the arguments between your parents.I know that it is very hard for you to understand why they fight,and why they won't always be happy together. Even though this is tough on you and Esau, it's important to keep out from under their feet. They have a lot more issues than you as "tween" could understand.A line that really stuck with me was: "I watched them. Froze them that way in my head. Stay there, I almost said aloud. Like that. But they broke apart. They always did." (39). Your father's issue with alcohol is a huge strain on their marriage, and not only emotionally but also financially. This is a big reason for why your mother wants to send Esau 'Away'. I think that its best for you to try and empathize with your mother and understand that the best place for Esau and his illness is definately where you call 'Away'. It was scary when Esau had an episode and you had to hold him down while your mother shoved a pill down his throat to stop the siezure. Unfortunately you and your mom cannot be there all the time in case of Esau's episodes, so even though sending Esau back "Away" is a difficult thing, and even thought it depresses you each night, maybe the best thing for Esau hurts you a little bit. Stay strong, because I have a feeling that this will not be your only loss.
<3Caitlin