51 pages 1 hour read

Judy Blume

Blubber

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 1974

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Chapters 5-8Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapter 5 Summary: “A person gets what she deserves.”

Back at Jill’s house after school, Kenny announces he’s won the most original costume prize at his school. He won a free meal at a local restaurant, Opie’s. Jill can’t believe it since she wore the witch costume for years and never won anything. Jill insults the restaurant. After Kenny goes to his room, Jill complains to Mrs. Sandmeier, who tells her that Kenny’s cigar and goggles made his costume more unusual. Jill comments that Kenny will probably be an unusual flenser next year and win again. 

Jill and Tracy plan to trick-or-treat at six-thirty. They plan to wear pillowcases with holes cut in them over their heads to protect their identities. Mr. Machinist, who lives in the nearby neighborhood, hides in the bushes and takes photos of children who mess with his house. After dinner, Jill packs a flashlight, Silly String, and toilet paper for her night out. Mom makes Jill wear a jacket because it’s cold. Mom and Dad make sure Jill can see and breathe in her pillowcase. Kenny stays home because he prefers to pass out UNICEF money and candy. Jill suspects Kenny fears Halloween night. 

Jill and Tracy head straight for Mr. Machinist’s house. Jill narrates her Halloween ethics of never smashing carved pumpkins or stealing candy from little kids.