“A pang of disappointment cut through Sadeed. His name had just been spoken in the ears of the most important men in this part of Panjshir province, and why? To be recommended for a great honor? No. To write a letter. To a girl.”

This quotation characterizes Sadeed as an ambitious and studious boy who hopes to make progress in his studies and gain recognition for his academic achievements. This passage also shows Sadeed’s initial resentment at having to write to Abby Carson, and his low expectations of corresponding with a girl, both elements that set up later changes in perspective and personal growth.

“After first-period gym class, Abby felt like the rest of the school day was zero fun—like a winter with no snow. Or a summer without sunshine. And these days, she was under a ton of extra pressure. Because the truth was, Abby had never been a very good student. And during the first half of sixth grade, her academic problems had gone from bad to worse.”

In this passage the author reveals that Abby struggles with her schoolwork and has serious “academic problems.” This quotation connects Abby’s disinterest in school subjects with her lack of discipline at school, and characterizes her as more of an athlete and outdoorswoman. This passage sets up the premise of the book: her decision to complete an extra credit project. It also allows for the comparison of the two protagonists’ personal educational investment and attainment levels, despite very different opportunities.

“But as she put her head on her pillow that Tuesday night, the fears began to whisper inside her head: You think just because you did all your homework one night, they’re going to let you go on to seventh grade? Ha! You are so stupid!”

Anxious thoughts haunt Abby as she tries to figure out a solution to her failing grades. This passage indicates that Abby is motivated to pass the sixth grade and suggests that her apathy is caused by a sense of failure: She feels “stupid” because of her low grades. This quotation characterizes Abby as a sensitive person and builds the reader’s sympathy for her and her predicament.