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Say Goodbye for Now summary
Brief summary
Say Goodbye for Now by Catherine Ryan Hyde is a heartwarming story about an unlikely friendship between a young white boy and a black man in 1950s Texas, and the challenges they face in a time of racial segregation.
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Say Goodbye for Now
Summary of key ideas
Unexpected Bonds in a Segregated Town
In Say Goodbye for Now, author Catherine Ryan Hyde begins the story in the 1950s in a small town in Texas. Here, the lives of a veterinarian, Dr. Lucy, a young boy, Pete, and a black man, Calvin, intersect in the most unexpected way. Dr. Lucy, an independent woman in a male-dominated profession, lives a solitary life, while Pete, a young boy who has been abandoned by his parents, struggles to find a place where he belongs.
Calvin, an African-American, crosses paths with Dr. Lucy and Pete when he seeks medical attention for a dog he hit with his car. Despite the racial tensions of the time, Dr. Lucy agrees to treat the dog, and Pete, who has a natural affinity for animals, is there to help. When the dog, whom they name Prince, recovers, they all form an unlikely bond.
Friendship and Prejudice
As the story progresses, Pete and Calvin's friendship grows, and Pete also becomes close to Dr. Lucy. However, their friendship faces opposition from the townspeople who are prejudiced against Calvin and Pete. The situation worsens when it is revealed that Calvin is a convict on parole and is not allowed to associate with Pete.
Despite the societal pressures and the law that forbids them to be friends, the four characters continue to meet in secret. Their friendship flourishes, and they find solace in each other's company. They also work together to fight against the town's systemic racism and prejudice, especially when it threatens to tear them apart.
Separation and Hope
However, the situation comes to a head when Calvin is accused of assaulting a white man, and the authorities threaten to take Pete away from Dr. Lucy's care. Fearing for their safety and future, Calvin and Pete decide to leave town. Dr. Lucy and her friend, Justin, Calvin's son, are left behind, devastated by the sudden separation.
Despite the distance, the bond between them remains strong. Pete and Calvin start a new life in another town, while Dr. Lucy and Justin continue to fight against the town's prejudices. Over time, they hope for a better future, where people are judged by their character and not the color of their skin.
A Reunion and New Beginnings
Years later, the characters' paths cross again. Pete, now a doctor, returns to the town and is reunited with Dr. Lucy and Justin. Calvin, who has spent his time advocating for racial equality, also returns, and the group is finally reunited. They realize that their bond has withstood the test of time and distance.
In the end, the story of Say Goodbye for Now is one of hope and resilience. Despite the odds, the characters' friendship remains unbroken, and they find strength in each other. The novel ends with a sense of new beginnings, as they continue to fight against prejudice and strive for a more inclusive and accepting society.
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What is Say Goodbye for Now about?
Say Goodbye for Now by Catherine Ryan Hyde is a heartwarming novel that delves into themes of love, friendship, and overcoming prejudice. Set in the 1950s, it tells the story of a young boy named Pete who befriends a mysterious new boy and a wounded wolf-dog. As their bond deepens, they must navigate the racial tensions of their small Texas town and make difficult choices that will change their lives forever.
Say Goodbye for Now Review
Say Goodbye for Now (2016) tells a moving story about friendships that transcend societal norms and the power of empathy in challenging times. Here's why this book is worth your time:
- Featuring complex, yet relatable characters, the book navigates difficult themes with grace and depth, offering a profound exploration of human connections.
- Through its heartwarming narrative and unexpected twists, the book keeps readers emotionally engaged from start to finish, ensuring a captivating read.
- The novel's message of hope and resilience resonates long after the last page, leaving a lasting impact on the reader.
Who should read Say Goodbye for Now?
Readers who enjoy heartwarming stories about unlikely friendships
Individuals interested in exploring themes of love, acceptance, and overcoming prejudice
Those who appreciate well-developed characters and emotionally impactful narratives
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Book summaries like Say Goodbye for Now
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Say Goodbye for Now FAQs
What is the main message of Say Goodbye for Now?
The main message of Say Goodbye for Now is about love, friendship, and overcoming prejudices.
How long does it take to read Say Goodbye for Now?
Reading Say Goodbye for Now takes a few hours. The Blinkist summary can be read in just 15 minutes.
Is Say Goodbye for Now a good book? Is it worth reading?
Say Goodbye for Now is a heartwarming story that teaches valuable lessons on compassion and empathy. It's definitely worth reading.
Who is the author of Say Goodbye for Now?
The author of Say Goodbye for Now is Catherine Ryan Hyde.
What to read after Say Goodbye for Now?
If you're wondering what to read next after Say Goodbye for Now, here are some recommendations we suggest:
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- Whereabouts by Jhumpa Lahiri
- Hearts in Darkness by Laura Kaye
- Every Heart a Doorway by Seanan McGuire
- The Curious Case of Benjamin Button by F. Scott Fitzgerald, Nunzio DeFilippis
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