We have changed our privacy policy. In addition, we use cookies on our website for various purposes. By continuing on our website, you consent to our use of cookies. You can learn about our practices by reading our privacy policy.

The Great Wide Sea Chapter 7 Summary

  • Ben had thought his father would change his mind. He didn't, though. And now they're in the middle of the ocean, headed toward the Bahamas.
  • Ben's hanging out with his brothers. Dylan's trying to make the best of things.
  • Now Dad starts ordering everyone around. He's the captain, after all. Ben doesn't argue even though he questions his father's judgment.
  • The boys are moving around, doing various boat jobs. Even little Gerry has a task.
  • Poor little Gerry is trying his best, but he's just too little. So little, in fact, that he flies overboard when the boat hits a rough wave.
  • Ben's off to the rescue. Gerry's hanging on to the side of the boat, but just barely.
  • Ben takes over Gerry's job. Dad comes over to see what happened. Ben tells him. Ben's furious, by the way.
  • Dad's going over safety procedures. Ben reminds him that Gerry can't swim. He sinks like a stone every time he tries.
  • Gerry had tried swimming the day of their mother's death. She had been going to get ice cream as a pick-me-up treat when she died in the car crash.
  • Ben's dad says he hadn't forgotten. Ben can't even process what he's saying. Ben's furious and screaming. He walks away.