Chapter 2, Fly Away Summary and Analysis

Chapter two jumps forward to 1979, as Pelzer flies away from Southern California to join the Air Force in Florida. He remembers that day in 1973, when Child Protective Services removed him from his Mother's home. At 12 years old, he learns things in foster care that most toddlers already know. He learns a little about communication and uses shampoo for the first time. His foster parents, the Turnboughs, invest time and love into him in a way no one ever has.

In his teens, he becomes a workaholic, looking to prove his worth. His work soon overtakes his education, and he withdrawals from school. He avoids the typical actions of teens, including dating and parties, to work forty or more hours a week.

However, he gets his GED and joins the Air Force. This requires piles of paperwork, including...