How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #4
They kept moving us over the water, stealing us away from our ghosts and our ancestors, who cried salty rivers into the sand. That's where Momma was now, wailing at the water's edge, while he girls were pulled out of sight, under white sails that cracked in the wind. (4.9)
Remember, Isabel is only thirteen. Could you have survived on your own in a strange place at her age? Isabel deals with the certain fear this brings by imagining her mother sharing in her grief over what's happening to her children.
Quote #5
[Curzon] set his package on a stump. "The little one is your sister? That's why you took the blow meant for her, isn't it?" (6.25)
With Momma and Poppa gone, Isabel has become, in effect, the leader of her family. She knows that a big part of this means protecting her weaker, younger sister at all costs—even if it means taking her place and being punished on her behalf. She's clearly influenced by her father in this regard, taking Ruth's beating the same way Poppa took the beating after being sold as a defense of his family.
Quote #6
I didn't wait for an answer, but started in on an island lullaby that Momma had loved. Ruth lay quiet, her breath steady and slow. By the time the song was over, she was fast asleep. (10.15)
While Isabel often shows evidence of her father's courage, she's also inherited her mother's quiet strength and nurturing spirit. In spite of Momma's absence, Isabel keeps her alive for Ruth by singing her favorite island song.