Chapters 28-30 Summary

Vernon's father, with a lot of effort, given his limited reading abilities, makes a schedule of chores for the house, to allow each child to contribute and give Steph a break. Vernon feels pride over his father's show of leadership.

Vernon then goes to take Robert for a walk. He tells off Maxine, who appears drunk, and walks back towards his house. When Ben, Vernon's younger brother appears and shows Robert how to draw a dog with sidewalk chalk, the usually mute Robert surprises everyone by saying the word dog. Vernon, not sure what to make of this new development, rushes Robert home and tells no one.

Vernon continues to visit Miss Annie and work Maxine's garden, though he avoids Maxine. Miss Annie confesses that befriending some people takes more effort than others do. Vernon confesses that he worries Robert will...