What Happens?

Jem and Scout discover items hidden in a hole in the tree outside the Radley's house. First, Scout finds chewing gum on her way home from school, then they both find old coins in a box, carved dolls (images of Jem and Scout), cotton, and a pocket watch with a knife and chain. Jem and Scout write a Thank you note to put into the whole but the hole gets filled with cement by Nathan Radley. He told Jem that it was because the tree was dying but he was lying because the tree was perfectly healthy according to Atticus.

Why is it significant?

Boo has been locked up and not allowed out for 15years. Allowing him to have no communication or socialising in society so this is his way of communicating to the otside world. He chooses Jem and Scout as we can assume that he has been watching them and their games surrounding him. It brings mystery into Jem and Scout's lives and suspense - who's leaving the presents?

When the knot hole is cemented closed it is like another door is closed for Boo to get in contact with the outside world and he is even more captured in his own home, having no joy at all. It breaks Jem and Scout's hope of finding the kind hearted person - but does Jem know who it is?

What does it tell us about -

Jem

At first Jem is bewildered about the items being left in the tree. He thinks that it may be dangerous to take the items left when you don't know where they come from.

Jem is ready to buy into the mystery of the items but slowly he starts thinking about it logically - putting two and two together. He realises that perhaps Boo has left the things there for Scout and him. This is why he investigates and questions Nathan Radley (who lies to him). Jem is a smart boy who is just coming to terms with the way things work in the world. It is still a little bit hard for him to believe that someone would stay in a house for 15 years either forcefully or willingly.

Scout

Scout is not at all suspicious about the items in the tree. She is more than willing to get wrapped up in the mystery and fantasy. It shows her innocence and idealistic views as she is not afraid of the consequences. Her "Finders Keepers" law also shows how she rationalises things.

Boo

This shows us that Boo is actually a nice, reserved, scared person and that what the kids believe about him is wrong. It shows that he wants to have contact with the outside world - even if he is not fully ready to reveal himself after so long.

It is interesting that he chooses children to try and have contact with. Does he think that they aren't as judgemental as adults? Is he intrigued at the games the children play?