Joey Pigza Swallowed the Key Chapter Summary & Analysis - Shifting Gears and Pittsburgh Summary

Shifting Gears and Pittsburgh Summary

Joey confronts his mother in "Shifting Gears" about a number of topics that he and Ed talked about throughout the day. Joey explains that Ed believes Fran is part of the problem and that Joey tried to defend her. Ms. Pigza pours herself a drink and Joey informs her that he was afraid all day that she had been taken or had run away. When he told Ed, Joey explains, Ed noted that her abandonment of Joey was part of his problems with his behaviors and that his grandmother's abuse was even more of the problem. Ms. Pigza begins to show anger as she becomes defensive. Joey also confronts her about her drinking, asking if he is allowed to have two pills if she has two drinks. Ms. Pigza calms down and admits that she thought all day about Joey and became embarrassed at what he might say. She realizes...
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