CHAPTER SUMMARY AND NOTES

CHAPTER 15

Summary

Even though he still misses his friend, Reuven gradually learns to accept the silence between himself and Danny. Outside of school, most of his attention is directed towards his father. When he returns from the hospital, Mr. Malter is very weak and gaunt. At night, he must be taken care of by a nurse, and he must refrain from talking, which immediately tires him. Reuven does, however, relate to him how he has pointed out a contradiction in Gershenson's class and how the professor reacted. His father is proud of his son's astute mind. Mr. Malter is also able to tell Reuven that on the day he was rushed to the hospital, he had been invited to be a delegate to the Zionist General Council. He is sad that he has not been able to participate.

In May, the creation of the new Jewish Nation of Israel is formally announced. Unfortunately, the newspaper headlines are filled with news about fighting between the Jews and Arabs. Both are attacking each other with many being killed on both sides. When a young graduate of Hirsch College is killed in the fighting, tension increases on the local campus.

In June, the United Nations brings about a truce, and the fighting ceases. Soon, accepting defeat, the Anti-Zionist League disbands. With the tensions at a lower level, Danny is even brave enough to approach Reuven and ask him for some help in math, which pleases Reuven.

For the Malters, life returns to normal. Reuven's father resumes his teaching duties, and Reuven makes straight A's on his final examinations. He decides to concentrate on a study of philosophy in his final year.

Notes

After two lengthy and action-filled chapters, this chapter resumes a slower pace. Mr. Malter is released from the hospital, and Reuven spends time caring for him. When he tells his father about the incident in Gershenson's class, Mr. Malter reveals his pride in his son's sharp mind and his boldness in speaking out.

The creation of Israel is formally announced, and the United Nations effects a truce between the Arabs and Jews. Admitting defeat, Rabbi Saunders' Anti-Zionist League ceases to exist. Because the spotlight is no longer on the differences between the two groups of Jews, Danny is brave enough to approach Reuven and ask him for help on his math. At the end of the chapter, there is a hope for a restored relationship between the two friends.

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