Summary

Abe’s body began to change at age 11 at the start of Chapter 13. Neighbors commented on his height, which would reach six feet and about four inches by the time he was 17. Aside from the occasional farm work, Abe spent these years alone in the woods with his ax. He taught himself how to use his body and his ax in the most effective ways. This time gave him the space to study and learn about the workings of the natural world. Abe “tried to read their secrets, he tried to be friendly with their mystery” (95). His body was strong and healthy as he grew “to become hard, tough, wiry” (95). Neighbors rumored him to be “strong as three men” (95). Abe could do quick and accurate work with his ax, and he carried large objects for neighbors by himself. On his way home from socializing...