How could I ever tell Dad or Lizzie about that, how could I put what I’d seen into words? The dictionary said adulteress, infidelity, extramarital.
-- Elvis (chapter 2 paragraph 5)

Importance: Elvis thinks this after recounting the story of when she witnessed the affair between her mother and Mr. Oakes. It is a perfect example of why Elvis likes facts and definitions: it puts unknown things into precise and knowable terms.

Nothing was happening to me, nothing had changed, at least nothing noticeable.
-- Elvis (chapter 6 paragraph 4)

Importance: This quote illustrates the trap Elvis falls into at the beginning of her grieving process. She analyzes her grief and compares it to the information she learns about grief from Ms. Bernstein and the DSM for Kids! Ironically, examining her own grief becomes a normal part of Elvis’s grieving process.

Remember how you asked me after we left the morgue if I was scared? I’m scared now.
-- Lizzie (chapter 12 paragraph 1)

Importance: Lizzie says this...