The Thing About Jellyfish

Suzy reflects on the ability of humans to conquer their fears. She mentions the hopefulness that humans feel when young, and the fact that the human ability to pursue change makes humans different from other species like jellyfish. 

One Friday morning, Suzy’s mother allows Suzy to sleep in and miss school. When Suzy wakes up, her mother tells her that the airline will refund the full charge of the ticket. Suzy goes outside in her pajamas, thinking that, if she had made it to Cairns, it would be a summer night instead of a winter day; ultimately being there on her own porch is “the only thing that made any sense” (315). Suzy’s mother suggests Suzy call her father, but Suzy is not ready: “I mean, how does a person just begin again, especially after that?” (315).

Suzy spends the day at home with her mother. Aaron and Rocco visit, and they all watch a soccer game. Justin calls for Suzy, but Suzy won’t talk to him. Mom gives Suzy his message that his costume is “awesomesauce” and that she should come to the dance. Suzy puts together a quick costume, donning a gray t-shirt over leggings and an old, paint-splattered ball cap.