Chapters 12 and 13 Summary

In chapter twelve, Jayber's pilgrimage through life is shown to have not been linear, but through all the twists and turns he still feels he has been led. First seeing Mattie Keith as a schoolgirl, often walking home with her boyfriend, Troy Chatham, he comes to know her from a distance. Jayber dislikes Troy's sense of entitlement. Mattie's parents own a significant farm; Jayber knows that Athey Keith, Mattie's father, does not approve of Troy. Troy becomes a basketball star in high school.

Athey and Della Keith own and run a large, rich farm. Jayber is certain that they, too, disapprove of Troy and know that beyond his basketball talent, there isn't much there. Jayber witnesses Troy making a "basket" into Mattie's bushel basket, showing off his skills. He clearly dislikes Troy.

In chapter thirteen, Jayber discusses how, in spite of...