John recalls his grandmother acquiring her first television after Lydia’s death. Geraldine resigns upon having no one to read to. The television, then, becomes the focus of Harriet Wheelwright’s life—though partly to criticize its programs. Surprisingly for John, both she and Owen develop a love for Liberace, thanks to the television. John, finding Liberace tasteless, complaining about his grandmother’s newfound passion to Dan, but Dan argues it is harmless.

The time comes from Owen to apply to Gravesend Academy; he is easily admitted. Because the Meanys cannot afford Owen’s tuition, Harriet funds Owen’s education, as well as his uniforms and other needs. Though John is ensured admission because Dan is his stepfather, the Academy recommends he complete ninth grade at the public school, then repeat the grade at Gravesend Academy the following year. Owen insists he will do the same, not wanting to be separated from John. During Thanksgiving of their (first) ninth grade year—1954—John’s cousins visit, witnessing television for the first time. Noah and then Simon begin their tenures at Gravesend Academy, though the academics prove challenging for Noah. Hester attends Sawyer Depot public school, and John worries that he harbors romantic feelings for her.

John recalls Owen’s disgust for the Mary Magdalene statue on the playground of St.