These chapters mark a turning point for Charlie as she grapples with the possibility of returning to Raleigh. Just as she begins to settle into her new life in Colby, a social worker arrives with news that threatens to uproot everything. Through heartfelt conversations and difficult decisions, Charlie begins to understand what truly matters to her.
Chapter 26: Blackbird in a Cage
At Vacation Bible School, Charlie Reese tries to emulate her sister Jackie's confidence, but feels out of place. When a girl named Audrey asks about the "blackbird in a cage" drawing on her hand—a copy of her father, Scrappy's tattoo—Charlie confidently states that Scrappy is "getting corrected" and will soon be home. Audrey's question about Charlie returning to Raleigh startles Howard Odom, and Charlie's confidence quickly turns to unease as she realizes the implications of her words.
Later, Howard is surprised when Charlie explains she shoved a boy for being mean to him, her friend. Howard reveals that his wish was for them to be friends. This simple, heartfelt wish coming true renews Charlie's hope for her own wish and solidifies their Friendship and Acceptance, reinvigorating her belief in the power of Wishing and Hope.
Chapter 27: That Note
Bertha confronts Charlie about the note she found in the rainbow lunch box—the one Charlie wrote to herself. Instead of scolding her, Bertha shares that she and Gus always wanted children but couldn't have any, admitting she isn't good at "doing things that mothers do." She apologizes for not putting a note in Charlie's lunch herself and asks for patience. This vulnerable confession breaks down the walls between them, creating a powerful emotional connection.
Overcome with emotion, Charlie absorbs Bertha's kindness. Afterward, the three work together in the garden, a picture of a loving family, before picking up Howard for ice cream. During the drive, Charlie realizes Colby no longer seems as "sorry" as it did when she arrived. Spotting a yellow railroad car, she makes her wish with renewed conviction, a sign she's finding her place and beginning to experience Healing and Overcoming Trauma.
Chapter 28: The Situation Had Improved
The summer settles into a comfortable rhythm as Charlie spends her days playing with Howard, fishing with Gus, and learning to crochet. She receives occasional letters from Scrappy and calls from Jackie, but her life is centered in Colby. This peace is shattered when a social worker arrives, announcing that the "situation back in Raleigh had improved" and that Charlie's mother, Mama (Carla), is doing better.
The social worker explains that it's best for children to be with their "real parent" and that someone will pick Charlie up in a few weeks. Instead of feeling happy that her original wish is seemingly coming true, Charlie is filled with confusion and fear. She realizes she doesn't want to leave her new life, Howard, or Wishbone. As Charlie cries out, Bertha promises, "I will make things right for you, Charlie." This moment marks a turning point, shifting Charlie's deepest desire from returning to Raleigh to staying in Colby and redefining the central conflict around The Meaning of Family.
Chapter 29: I Don't Want to Go Back
Carla calls, and her conversation with Bertha is tense. When Charlie gets on the phone, her mother launches into a tirade of self-pity, complaining about Jackie and Scrappy. When Charlie mentions Scrappy's tattoo, Carla abruptly hangs up. Bertha is incensed by her sister's selfishness, muttering, "It's always about Carla." Shaken, Charlie seeks comfort at the Odoms' house but cannot bring herself to tell Howard she might be leaving.
That night, Jackie calls, and Charlie finally admits, "I don't want to go back to Raleigh." Jackie reminds Charlie of all the wonderful things she has in Colby—Gus and Bertha, the Odoms, Howard, and the mountains. Charlie realizes that in her focus on her wish, she failed to see the beautiful reality that had formed around her. She tells Jackie about Bertha's promise, clinging to that hope as she goes to bed with her "clothesline of troubles" heavier than ever.
Chapter 30: Ain't Bertha the Best?
Carla calls again, and this time Bertha's anger boils over. She yells into the phone, discovering that Carla is planning to abandon her responsibilities again to go to Chattanooga with a man. After Carla hangs up, Bertha turns to Charlie, who asks if she is going back to Raleigh. Bertha's response is firm: "No, you aren't." She tells Charlie to go to Howard's while she makes some phone calls.
Charlie tells Howard everything, from the social worker's visit to Bertha's declaration. Howard's simple response—"Ain't Bertha the best?"—focuses on the one good thing and provides immense comfort. They spend the afternoon working on a fort, a distraction from the emotional turmoil. Later, Charlie tearfully admits her fear of leaving. Howard reassures her, "You're not." His confidence soothes her. When Bertha calls for her to come home, Charlie heads back, wondering if Bertha was truly able to make things right.
Key Events
- Howard's Wish: Howard reveals his wish was for friendship with Charlie, giving her renewed hope.
- Bertha's Confession: Bertha's vulnerability strengthens her bond with Charlie.
- The Social Worker's Visit: The announcement of Charlie's potential return to Raleigh throws her world into turmoil.
- Charlie's Realization: Charlie realizes she wants to stay in Colby.
- Carla's Abandonment: Carla's plan to leave for Chattanooga highlights her unreliability.
- Bertha's Promise: Bertha promises to protect Charlie and ensure she stays in Colby.
Character Development
- Charlie Reese: She undergoes a significant transformation, shifting from wanting to return to Raleigh to wanting to stay in Colby. She learns to value friendship and the stability Bertha and Gus provide. Her admission, "I don't want to go back," marks her acceptance of her new reality.
- Bertha: She fully embraces her role as a mother figure. Her vulnerability and fierce protectiveness demonstrate her deep love for Charlie. She transitions from caregiver to advocate, promising to "make things right."
- Howard Odom: He serves as an emotional anchor, his simple wish for friendship providing Charlie with acceptance. His unwavering support gives Charlie strength during a crisis.
- Mama (Carla): She is revealed as a selfish and unreliable parent, justifying Charlie's placement with Bertha and Gus.
Themes & Symbols
- The Meaning of Family: The narrative contrasts Charlie's biological family with her found family, arguing that family is defined by love, stability, and presence, not just blood.
- Wishing and Hope: Charlie's wish transforms from reuniting her family in Raleigh to hoping for a stable future in Colby. Howard's wish coming true suggests that wishes can be about finding happiness where you are.
- The Odoms' House: The chaotic, messy, and love-filled home symbolizes a healthy family environment, a sanctuary for Charlie.
- The Phone: The telephone symbolizes emotional distance and dysfunction, representing the severing of emotional bonds.
Significance
This section represents the story's climax and emotional turning point. Charlie's primary motivation shifts as she confronts the reality of her situation. The social worker's visit creates a crisis that forces Charlie to articulate what she truly wants. The events resolve the central conflict of where Charlie belongs, solidifying the novel's core message: home is not a place, but the people who love and care for you.
Key Quotes
"Doesn't anybody ever think about me?" - Carla
Carla's self-pitying question highlights her selfishness and inability to prioritize her daughter's needs. This quote emphasizes the stark contrast between Carla and Bertha, further solidifying the theme of found family versus biological family.
"I will make things right for you, Charlie." - Bertha
Bertha's promise is a pivotal moment, demonstrating her unwavering commitment to Charlie's well-being. This quote encapsulates Bertha's transformation into a fierce protector and signifies her willingness to fight for Charlie's happiness.