‘To her we are not separate people. Over here, we have become a single unit known as all of you’. (page 28)
This quote relates to the theme of family and relationships. The profound barrier between Niang’s biological children and step-children is portrayed through the different treatment of the two groups, with Niang’s ‘real’ children favoured immensely.
‘In no time at all big sister went over to the other side. I knew Niang loathed me and despised my aunt.’ (page 59)
This quote relates to the theme of family and relationships. The reader feels disgust and sadness for Adeline, and pity for her as Niang’s despise for her tears her and her siblings apart by bringing Big Sister over to ‘their side’.
Abandonment & Loneliness:
‘One by one they were greeted and led away by anxious mothers. Nobody came for me.’ (page 30)
This quote relates to the theme of abandonment and loneliness. The reader pities Adeline and it is easy to empathise with her as she watches *** her friends taken from school with loving mothers and it is left alone to ponder her misfortune.
‘I took the duckling to my heart... it comforted me to know I was needed.’ (page 84)
This quote relates to the theme of abandonment and loneliness. The duckling made Adeline feel as though she was not completely worthless and was needed. This was a change for Adeline.
Self-esteem:
‘If you had not been born, Mama would still be alive. She died because of you. You are bad luck.’ (page 3)
This quote relates to the theme of self-esteem. The reader feels very sorry for Adeline and it is easy to see why she does not feel good about herself and carries guilt if she is constantly spoken to this way.
‘I was overjoyed! Not only had Niang finally acknowledged me, she had given me a task to perform!’ (page 169)
This quote relates to the theme of self-esteem. Adeline’s feelings are always affected by her parents’ and are altered depending on the way her parents respond towards her. She has lived in a dark shadow all her life, and is well immune to being ignored and forgotten. When her parents acknowledge her presence, or even say a few harmless words to her, she feels immensely pleased.
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