First-grader tomie depaola experiences uncertainty in the weeks following the attack on pearl Harbor, December 7, 19 1. what are the grown-ups talking quietly about at home and even at school? why does his class have to go to the spooky furnace room for an air raid drill? why does the family hang thick black curtains over the windows? tomie?s mother is there to comfort and explain the confusion, and tomie feels better. but he?s still scared.