Chapter 18 Summary: September 19, 1993 – Lizzie
Spoiler Notice
This chapter summary and analysis contains full details of Chapter 18 of Releasing 10 (The Boys of Tommen) by Chloe Walsh. If you have not read the chapter, proceed with caution.
Summary
Chapter 18 opens on September 19, 1993, with Lizzie present while her sister Caoimhe and her boyfriend Mark kiss in the kitchen. Mark notices Lizzie’s silence and asks what is wrong with her. Caoimhe explains that Lizzie has selective mutism, a condition that prevents her from speaking to anyone outside the immediate family. She reveals that Lizzie attends a special school in the city and undergoes therapy, though she can talk when it suits her. Pressed for the cause, Caoimhe admits it stems from past trauma but calls it a private family matter. She assures Mark that Lizzie will not tell their parents about their relationship. Mark engages Lizzie directly, calling her “munchkin,” and tries to coax her into speaking. Lizzie responds with a smile and later plays along when Mark pretends to be a “smelly-sock monster.” After he leaves with Caoimhe, Lizzie thinks of him as her very first friend.
Key Events
- Mark asks Caoimhe why Lizzie does not speak, and she explains the selective mutism diagnosis.
- Caoimhe reveals that Lizzie’s condition is due to past trauma, although she refuses to give details.
- Mark wins Lizzie’s trust by calling her “munchkin” and playing a monster game with her.
- Caoimhe and Mark leave together after Mark promises to play with Lizzie next time.
- The chapter ends with Lizzie privately considering Mark her first real friend.
Character Development
- Lizzie – Her selective mutism is shown as a symptom of trauma, yet she is capable of nonverbal communication: she smiles, nods, and even screams with laughter during play. This chapter reveals her desire for connection, as she eagerly accepts Mark’s attention.
- Caoimhe – She is protective of Lizzie, both explaining her condition and quickly shutting down Mark’s speculation about their father. Her loyalty to her sister is clear, but she also prioritizes her relationship with Mark.
- Mark – He shows patience and creativity by inventing the “smelly-sock monster” game to engage Lizzie. His willingness to treat her as a normal kid suggests genuine kindness, though his initial motives may include securing Caoimhe’s trust.
Themes, Symbols, or Motifs
- Selective mutism as a response to trauma – The chapter underscores how trauma can manifest in silence, making communication a selective act of trust.
- The smelly-sock monster – This game symbolizes the power of play to bypass trauma and build a bridge of affection. Mark’s silly monster persona allows Lizzie to express joy without speaking.
- The idea of being “fixed” – When Mark asks if he can “fix” Lizzie, she nods eagerly. This motif sets up an expectation that Mark may become a key figure in her healing process.
- Secrecy and family privacy – Caoimhe’s evasiveness about the trauma suggests hidden pain within the family, hinting at deeper backstory.
Why This Chapter Matters
Chapter 18 is a turning point for Lizzie’s emotional world. For the first time, an outsider—Mark—successfully engages her beyond her mutism. The chapter establishes Mark as a potential source of stability in her life. It also deepens the mystery around Lizzie’s past, as Caoimhe’s reluctance to name the trauma leaves readers speculating. This scene lays the foundation for any future bond between Lizzie and Mark, while illustrating how children cope with trauma through selective silence and play.
Study Questions and Answers
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Why does Caoimhe describe Lizzie’s condition as “selective mutism,” and what does this reveal about Lizzie’s behavior?
Answer: Caoimhe explains that Lizzie does not speak to anyone except family, which is why she attends a special school and does therapy. The term “selective” implies that Lizzie can talk but chooses not to, indicating her mutism is triggered by anxiety around non-family members rather than a physical inability. -
What is the significance of Mark calling Lizzie “munchkin” and playing the smelly-sock monster game?
Answer: Mark’s nickname and playful game humanize him in Lizzie’s eyes. They show he is willing to meet her on her level, using silliness to earn her trust. For Lizzie, this interaction represents her first experience of play with someone outside her family, making her view him as her first true friend. -
How does Caoimhe’s reaction to Mark’s question about family trauma hint at deeper issues?
Answer: When Mark asks if her father harmed Lizzie, Caoimhe snaps “Why would our dad hurt her?” and grows angry. Her defensiveness and refusal to elaborate suggest the trauma might involve the father or another family member, but she quickly changes the subject to avoid exposing a painful secret.