The Same Stuff as Stars

Book written by Katherine Patterson, 

Response to Literature by Zach

    The Same Stuff as Stars is a book about a girl named Angel and her brother named Bernie.  Their Dad is in jail and their Mom abandoned them at an old farmhouse with their Great-Grandma.  Later in the story, their Mom, Verna, took Bernie away and left Angel.  After this, the Great-Grandma said,  “Verna must have forgot who it is that really took care of Bernie”.  In this response to literature, I will give examples to prove that the quote is true.

    When Angel and Bernie got to their Great-Grandma’s (who they referred to as “Grandma” and I will too), there was no fresh food, only canned beans, canned pork, and canned peaches.  When Verna left, Angel took charge and went to the supermarket, getting food from all five-food groups.  Even when Verna was with them, it was she who balanced Bernie’s diet.

    At their Grandma’s, Bernie didn’t want to go outside one bit.  Angel knew he should get fresh air, so she made him go outside with her.  Even through Bernie’s “now what’s,” she made him do it and was cheerful through all his complaints.

    Angel wanted Bernie to gain more knowledge, so she not only took him to the library, but also asked the librarian about school and made the phone call to enlist them.  Again, Angel ignored Bernie’s complaints and did what was best for him, like a good mom would do.  Verna would have never done that, because she only looked out for her own best interests, not Angel or Bernie’s.

    When Verna, Bernie, and Angel stopped at McDonald’s for fast food, Bernie spilled his soda.  While Verna yelled and went to the truck, leaving them there, Angel grabbed napkins and told Bernie he could have hers.  This shows that, like a real mom, Angel has patience with Bernie.  Verna on the other hand, does not.

    While they were driving away from McDonald’s, Bernie was crying, because he was upset with himself and because he was very hungry.  While he was crying and complaining, Verna was telling him to “shut up”, while Angel was telling him “that its okay”.  This is proof that Angel notices Bernie when he’s upset, but Verna doesn’t care at all.

    As you see, Angel is more of a mom than Verna ever was.  She knows he is young and requires patience and attention.  Without Angel, Bernie would be unhealthy, dumb, and not to mention, in need of a mom.

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