Say Goodbye for Now summary

Unexpected Bonds in a Segregated Town

In Say Goodbye for Now, author Catherine Ryan Hyde begins the story in the 1950s in a small town in Texas. Here, the lives of a veterinarian, Dr. Lucy, a young boy, Pete, and a black man, Calvin, intersect in the most unexpected way. Dr. Lucy, an independent woman in a male-dominated profession, lives a solitary life, while Pete, a young boy who has been abandoned by his parents, struggles to find a place where he belongs.

Calvin, an African-American, crosses paths with Dr. Lucy and Pete when he seeks medical attention for a dog he hit with his car. Despite the racial tensions of the time, Dr. Lucy agrees to treat the dog, and Pete, who has a natural affinity for animals, is there to help. When the dog, whom they name Prince, recovers, they all form an unlikely bond.

Friendship and Prejudice

As the story progresses, Pete and Calvin's friendship grows, and Pete also becomes close to Dr. Lucy. However, their friendship faces opposition from the townspeople who are prejudiced against Calvin and Pete. The situation worsens when it is revealed that Calvin is a convict on parole and is not allowed to associate with Pete.

Despite the societal pressures and the law that forbids them to be friends, the four characters continue to meet in secret. Their friendship flourishes, and they find solace in each other's company. They also work together to fight against the town's systemic racism and prejudice, especially when it threatens to tear them apart.

Separation and Hope

However, the situation comes to a head when Calvin is accused of assaulting a white man, and the authorities threaten to take Pete away from Dr. Lucy's care. Fearing for their safety and future, Calvin and Pete decide to leave town. Dr. Lucy and her friend, Justin, Calvin's son, are left behind, devastated by the sudden separation.

Despite the distance, the bond between them remains strong. Pete and Calvin start a new life in another town, while Dr. Lucy and Justin continue to fight against the town's prejudices. Over time, they hope for a better future, where people are judged by their character and not the color of their skin.

A Reunion and New Beginnings

Years later, the characters' paths cross again. Pete, now a doctor, returns to the town and is reunited with Dr. Lucy and Justin. Calvin, who has spent his time advocating for racial equality, also returns, and the group is finally reunited. They realize that their bond has withstood the test of time and distance.

In the end, the story of Say Goodbye for Now is one of hope and resilience. Despite the odds, the characters' friendship remains unbroken, and they find strength in each other. The novel ends with a sense of new beginnings, as they continue to fight against prejudice and strive for a more inclusive and accepting society.