Status Updates From Out of the Dust

“When I rode the train west, I went looking for something, but I didn’t see anything wonderful. I didn’t see anything better than what I already had. Home.”

“Ma had been like tumbleweed too, holding on for as long as she could, then blowing away on the wind. My father was more like the sod. Steady, silent, and deep. Holding on to life, with reserves underneath to sustain him, and me, and anyone else came near.” This is before Billie Jo decides to come home and I always find it so interesting how she realizes how strong her father is when she’s away from him.

for school - pretty good so far

“I think we’re both turning to dust.” The main feature here is Billie Jo’s relationship with her father after her mother dies. I always remembered they had a strained relationship, but I’m starting to think her father literally won’t let her leave. She is fourteen/fifteen so it’s fair but he holds her hostage with the invitation from her aunt, like if he can’t get out then neither can she.

I feel like I’m seeing it now. I see the subtle ironies like the main character’s brother’s name being Franklin, but also I remember so much which I hadn’t thought I would. I think I understand some side characters a bit more now, like I never realized Arley was like BJ’s parent when she didn’t have one.

I read this book four years ago. I know what’s going to happen and I wonder how that’ll change how I think about it.