Having just shed some tears watching Who Do You Think You Are (obviously my all time favourite program) I've looked in on this thread again.
chrise- Does not the first paragraph of Chapter 70 make it quite clear?
I think the book has been criticised before for loose ends. I'm not defending it! :-)). I just find it an immense tour de force, to be able to create such sadness and joy in a reader. It's the same with "The Boy With No Shoes". I defy anyone to read the end dry-eyed, yet it is with happiness not sadness tears form.
I've read 4 or 5 books a week since I was about 7 years old and no other author has that effect. He also makes me laugh in person (though not cry, I'm pleased to say!)