Question 12

Passage 3

In this passage, Aunt Baba, the only family member (besides Yeye, Adlines grandpa) who has ever cared about her, tries to convince her to reach for her dreams. Everyone else in the family does not believe in Adeline and for this reason, Adeline must believe in herself and prove them wrong. Adeline's aunt is a big influence on her because she is the closest thing to a mom that Adeline has. Though she is later forced to be separated from her aunt, during the time that she is with her, Adeline learns to always do her best in school and try her hardest. She is constantly at the top of her class and has been ever since she was little. This passage struck me personally, as it is one that is very inspiring. Although Adeline was brought down by her family, by having one person who believed in her, she was able to accomplish her dreams and become a writer.

Passage 2

This passage specifically stuck out, as it portrays the desolation that Adeline felt due to her family's hatred against her. Adeline is accused of stealing a silver coin by her stepmother, Niang. Adeline had actually received this coin as a gift, yet Niang calls her a thief and a liar. Because of this, Adeline is punished by her father and he whips her. Though her father feels nothing for her and could care less about her emotions, Adeline feels broken. For her father favors Niang rather than his own daughter, filling Adeline with overwhelming pain and guilt as she believes that she is worthless. The passage struck me personally as very profound and sad. For it shows the true meaning of being unloved and unwanted.

Passage 1

Big Sister tells Adeline this, blaming her for the death of their mother. The passage represents how Adeline was mistreated by her siblings and thought of as "bad luck". To be told that you killed your mother, when you are a child, and then to be blamed and hated for it, is something extremely harsh and saddening. Adeline felt this throughout her childhood and it affected her tremendously, causing her much pain and guilt. This opened a wound that only became bigger throughout the years. That wound was not able to begin healing until Adeline became an adult.