84 pages 2 hours read

Sharon Creech

Ruby Holler

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2002

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Themes

The Fear of Separation

Throughout the novel, Dallas and Florida speak of their desire to remain together at all times. Not only do they share a unique and special bond as twins; they have endured the same experience of abandonment and abuse. In this way, each twin becomes the sole support system for the other and is reluctant to trust anyone else. Because the twins are highly reliant on each other, they vow to never be separated: They both fear being apart and share a sense of deep commitment and love. Thus, when they are presented with the opportunity to travel with the Moreys, the thought of being separated from one another gives Dallas and Florida pause.

Likewise, both Tiller and Sairy become anxious at the thought of being apart from one another. Their children have moved away, and they live a rather isolated life. Like Dallas and Florida, each has only the other to depend upon. They frequently speak of what life would be like if they were to be apart and worry about their time spent away from one another on their upcoming trips. In taking the separate trips, they must choose whether to follow their own

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