Chapter 21, The Girl of My Dreams Summary and Analysis

Jeanne watches her blond friend successfully dance, date, and be the center of attention at parties and dances. She knows that she can never be that girl. The boys flirt with her, but always ask other girls out for dates. If they did ask her for a date, she would be horrified by her Papa's behavior. He would be angry if she dated a Caucasian boy. She does not want to be a blond Caucasian like Radine; she just wants to be accepted.

Jeanne has a recurring dream of looking through the window, watching a blond girl dancing and having fun. Jeanne feels empty, knowing she can never be that girl. The dream recurs for years.

As Jeanne is about to give up on ever being able to succeed, and nearly...