Question

part a what does the missing pencil symbolize in the pencil bandit? the missing pencil is a symbol of the customary daily journaling routine. the missing pencil is a symbol for something unexpected or unusual happening. the missing pencil is a symbol for lousias baby sister often being to blame. the missing pencil is a symbol for the mother forgetting to fix the window screen. part b how does the answer to part a contribute to the overall meaning of the text? the symbol of the pencil shows how we would all be better off without strict routines like lousia. the symbol of the pencil shows that its helpful to have someone in the house to blame things on.

Explanation:

In literature, symbols often represent abstract ideas or events. A missing pencil can disrupt a daily - journaling routine, symbolizing an unexpected or unusual happening. This unexpected event can contribute to the overall meaning by showing how disruptions to routine can have an impact.

Answer:

Part A: The missing pencil is a symbol for something unexpected or unusual happening.
Part B: The symbol of the pencil shows how we would all be better off without strict routines like Louisa.