Summary

In “Variables,” the introduction to Part Four of the novel, Suzy quotes her science teacher’s definition of variables, the things that help scientists determine what is causing the phenomena they are researching.

In the section “Blooms” Suzy reports the jellyfish are taking over the oceans. Because too many fish have been taken from the ocean the jellyfish have less competition for food. Additionally, jellyfish can survive in warm, chemical filled, oxygen deprived water where other species can’t live. Their populations have gotten so big, Suzy states, that it is feared they might eventually starve out the whale population.

In “How to Drift Apart” Suzy notices Franny begins worrying about her clothes. Every time Susy tries to tell her that her parents are divorced, Franny is busy smoothing her skirt or looking in a mirror. Franny...