Chapter 31 Summary

This chapter contains entries from Rachel's journal. The reader learns that Grandpa Izzy fell again on Tuesday. Fortunately, Rachel was there to catch him and she eased him onto the bench at a bus stop. Izzy was panicky, gasping for air. Rachel didn't tell her parents right away, knowing they would only worry. She remembers the doctor saying there's little that can be done. Most of the time Rachel and her parents avoid talk of Izzy's illness and looming death. It's almost as if they believe if they don't discuss it, it will go away.

Rachel finally tells her mother about Izzy's fall on Wednesday. Shirley is furious, insisting Rachel should have told her right away. Shirley accuses Rachel of being irresponsible. Then Shirley panicked and called the doctor. Dr. North explains that Izzy will continue to feel weaker, and there is little...