Chapter 2 Summary

Ruth and Lucille's grandmother plans that when she dies, her sisters-in-law, Lily and Nona, will move into the house in Fingerbone to look after the girls. Lily and Nona move in, but almost immediately find themselves unable to cope. They are uncomfortable around children and hate the small town. They place ads trying to reach Helen's younger sister. Sylvie has no known address and may not be sane, but if she could be found, she might accept taking care of the girls and relieve Lily and Nona of the responsibility.

Chapter 2 Analysis

Lily and Nona demonstrate the kind of sisterly bond that can close two women together and that excludes the world. The two maiden ladies resent leaving their cozy routine at a residence hotel in Spokane. Change of any sort frightens them, children make them anxious, and making new friends and building...