Previous
Chapter 9
Themes
Key
LitCharts assigns a color and icon to each theme in Boy Overboard, which you can use to track the themes throughout the work.
Immigration, Family, and Home
Identity and Ancestry
Hope
Gender and Discrimination
Summary
Analysis
Jamal and Bibi’s dad carries them inside Yusuf’s grandfather’s house. They ask where their mother is, and their father explains that she will meet them the next day in the city. Yusuf’s grandfather reports that villagers are still outside, but that the taxi in the alley has not been discovered. Jamal and Bibi’s dad says it’s time to go and thanks Yusuf’s grandfather. Jamal says goodbye to Yusuf and tries to give him his ball, but Yusuf refuses, telling him Jamal needs it where he’s going. Yusuf says he will miss Jamal, and Jamal nods his agreement, too choked up to speak. In the taxi, Jamal reassures Bibi that they will see their mom soon and that their family will always stay together.
This passage underscores the selflessness of Yusuf and his grandfather. Though harboring criminals puts them in danger, they do not think twice about assisting them. This is particularly true of Yusuf who, recognizing the turmoil Jamal must be going through, gifts Jamal his football. Even though footballs are hard to come by, Yusuf recognizes that Jamal has a greater need than him, showing great generosity. This scene also illustrates the responsibility that Jamal has an older brother. Though he is also concerned by his mother’s absence, he hides his own misgivings and tries to comfort Bibi.
Themes
