The Vanderbeekers of 141st Street

“The pipes rumbled companionable within the brownstone walls.”

The author establishes the Vanderbeeker’s home as a prominent figure in the novel. The building is very old and makes many strange noises throughout the day, but the family accepts them as part of their life and even enjoys the familiarity of the sounds. The house comes alive and is often just as boisterous as the large Vanderbeeker family.

“Newton’s Laws apply to everything.”

Newton’s Third Law supports that there is a symmetry in actions and consequences, and Jessie doesn’t think they have done anything to the Beiderman that merits this reaction. This quote characterizes Jessie’s logical personality. Jessie thinks scientifically, and until now, Newton’s Laws offer the answers to every question she has in life. However, rational scientific laws can’t explain nor help her understand why Mr. Beiderman would no longer want them as tenants.

“I have a little dreidel, I made it out of clay.”

Laney sings “I Have a Little Dreidel,” a traditional Jewish children’s song sung during the holiday season. A dreidel is a four-sided top with each side printed with Hebrew letters. Laney’s idea to sing a song for Biederman illustrates her innocence and kindness.