Lesson 24 — Activity 2: Chapters 15 – 16

Chapter 15 of the novel deals with Marina's father's funeral and the strain on everyone involved.

Chris came to feel that Mr. Ryerson was a good friend. He has trouble coping with Mr. Ryerson's death and the way it has affected his life. Chris realizes his relationship with Marina is now even more complicated as she struggles to deal with the loss of her father.

Marina tells Chris that she needs to spend some time with her mother and doesn't want to see him for a few days. This leaves Chris feeling hurt and confused, although he realizes that Marina's mother needs her.

Chris's father is very upset at the funeral, which surprises Chris because the two men had only met once. The chapter ends with Chris skipping rocks by the sea, thinking of Marina.

Chapter 16 of the novel tells us how Chris is getting along without Marina. When the chapter opens, we learn that Chris has been working hard at the gas station and spending his free time improving his windsurfing skills. Marina and her mother have gone back to Culverton (where they lived before moving to Rocky Harbour) to stay with Marina's aunt, while her mother thinks about their future. Marina leaves a note for Chris to look after Jack, but the note does not have any contact information.

Chris's parents continue trying to sell their house but without any success. They don't like the experience of having people looking at their home.

Mr. Keller comes by to tell Chris that he has had the incinerator inspected and that it will be ready for more toxic waste soon. Chris doesn't believe him and reacts angrily when Mr. Keller accuses him of having forged the lab report.

The chapter ends with Chris realizing that the past two weeks have been difficult. He has not dealt with his emotions. He realizes that being angry at Mr. Keller is the first time that he has allowed his emotions to surface. It is the first sign that he is growing up and dealing with life.