Summary

The first chapter, “Number Four, The Avenue (21 June 1976),” opens with the disappearance of Mrs. Creasy. This disappearance is discussed at the breakfast table of Grace and her parents. Grace repeats overheard statements from a neighbor but imagines that Mrs. Creasy was abducted. By the time her friend Tilly arrives to walk to school, Grace decides Mrs. Creasy has been murdered.

Grace recollects meeting Tilly for the first time. Grace had been watching from Mrs. Morton’s window as Tilly moved into the neighborhood with her mom and few possessions. Grace befriends Tilly, they spend time at Mrs. Morton’s house, and Grace learns that Tilly has peculiar habits, like not eating in front of others and wearing sweaters in the sweltering heat.

The neighbors speculate on Mrs. Creasy’s whereabouts. Grace sees Mr. Creasy...