Little David Olson looked off the road. The night was silent. Some crickets. A little bit of fog that lit the path to the trees. David was terrified, but he couldn't stop. It was all up to him. He had to finish or the Hissing lady would get out. And his big brother would be the first to die.
-- David Olson (Prologue paragraph 46)

Importance: This quote establishes important plot and thematic elements. It emphasizes isolation as a major theme. David Olson is alone. His community has essentially abandoned him. Despite that, he is still determined to play his part and defeat the evil that looms over Mill Grove. He experiences no bitterness or resentment, only desperation to save the ones he loves. The passage also introduces the theme of sacrifice, with David willing to give himself up as the ultimate act of love for his brother, Ambrose.

There is a moment childhood ends, she thought...
-- Kate Reese (chapter 2 paragraph 51)