They are only left to wonder, hope and dream. .
Obviously, the Halisham students have a distinct life. They obtain the normal behavior as of most kids but there is something different about their way of life. Like all cultures, there are a set of unwritten or written social norms. Social norms are behaviors that are acceptable in a social group. In Halisham, art and creativity are significant. The Halisham students hold Sales/Spring Exchanges where all students are able to see other fellow students' possessions and are able to buy them. It is normal for other students to watch each other carefully and try on different poses, attitudes and ways of speaking. Another social norm I see is an unspoken rule to not mention the "Gallery." Early in the book, the word Gallery appears. It is where a mysterious character, Madame, comes to find the best art to take. But, to take where and why is unknown to the students. "Then Carole H. had said, through her giggles: "You might even get it picked for the Gallery!" She immediately put her hand over her mouth with an "oops!" and the atmosphere remain light-hearted; but we all knew, Mr.Roger included, that she had made a mistake."(Pg.32). This suggests the Gallery should not be mentioned at all.
In the novel, the author clearly portrays the lives of three characters Ruth, Tommy and Kathy. But, he narrates the story mostly through the life of Kathy H. I wonder why is it important for Kathy to seek out donors who are from Halisham. Do she want to re-live her past? Would she like to experience her childhood one more time? Throughout this entire book, Kathy's narration is key in putting this together the story. I sense an enormous amount of intimacy between Kathy and I when I read. It is like I have direct access to her mind. I am able to see things she sees and react as if I was actually there.
The other two characters, Ruth and Tommy, who are Kathy's best friends, are also key to this novel.