I loved the fact that Momma knew exactly what she was doing. You included possible hints at the beginning that she was aware of what the boys had done, but guilty Claude's clear let down over being served an egg and onion was fun, and adolescent readers will especially enjoy the justice.
After reading the entire chapter, I do see how a great deal of chicken preparation might distract from the build-up of her brothers getting caught. Since watching it unfold through Maxine's eyes is so effective, I wonder if a section of the chicken process could be generally referred to and then interrupted by her additional attempt to hint to her mother about the chicken's suspicious demise.
The chicken process is so well-written, but I guess it's not the chapter's core.
I loved the fact that Momma knew exactly what she was doing. You included possible hints at the beginning that she was aware of what the boys had done, but guilty Claude's clear let down over being served an egg and onion was fun, and adolescent readers will especially enjoy the justice.
After reading the entire chapter, I do see how a great deal of chicken preparation might distract from the build-up of her brothers getting caught. Since watching it unfold through Maxine's eyes is so effective, I wonder if a section of the chicken process could be generally referred to and then interrupted by her additional attempt to hint to her mother about the chicken's suspicious demise.
The chicken process is so well-written, but I guess it's not the chapter's core.