- Every time Peekay goes home for the break he feels like nothing has changed back in Barberton, and he really likes that fact. Coming home a hero is also a nice touch.
- Mrs. Boxall, with the help of Mr. Bornstein, has continued the letter-writing campaign through the Sandwich Foundation, and when Peekay is home he brings back the tobacco-filled tracts, which spikes interest in writing to good old King Georgie again, mysteriously.
- Peekay keeps boxing with the jail squad, but he feels like he's not growing and wishes that he could afford to train with Solly Goldman, South Africa's top pro trainer.
- During the break Peekay divides his time between boxing, hiking, and playing music with Doc; studying with Miss Bornstein; and playing chess with Mr. Bornstein. Miss Bornstein is determined that Peekay get a big-deal Rhodes scholarship to study at Oxford University, in England.
- Even though he loves it at home, Peekay's always ready to get back to his pals at school and his daily debates with Morrie.