Chapter 6 Summary

Later that day, Palmer's mother reacts in horror at the sight of Palmer's beaten and bruised arm. Palmer's father is less shocked and ruffles Palmer's hair in acknowledgement of Palmer's acceptance into the exclusive group of those surviving The Treatment. Palmer receives a birthday gift from his father who gives him a box of old metal toy soldiers, which had originally belonged to Palmer's great grandfather. Palmer's birthday has been a huge success with nice gifts, new friends, and The Treatment; but Palmer breaks down in tears and hears a voice in his dreams telling Palmer that he has run out of birthdays.

Chapter 6 Analysis

Although Palmer wants to grow up and has always enjoyed his birthdays, his internal voice always speaks to him of the impending dread related to the dead pigeons. The author helps to validate Palmer's growing maturity and responsibility...