How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
"Always be worthy my daughter, of your good fortune. Born to an illustrious clan from the ancient civilizations of China, you now live in the land of plenty and opportunity. By your conduct show that you deserve to enjoy the best of both worlds." (4.31)
Shirley has to carry the weight of her family's reputation on her back. Even when she's a kid in a new environment, she can't forget that she represents the Wongs and the entire country of China. That's a lot of pressure for a little kid. How's she supposed to enjoy her life and become American with that weight on her back?
Quote #8
The worst part of it was that Father did not even notice her unhappiness, her goodness. He hummed as he puttered. How could grown-ups be so blind to the pain of those younger and shorter than they? It was not fair. (8.39)
When cleaning up their basement, Shirley's father drags her into it. She's moping about during the summer and hates it—like any kid, she resents her dad for making her do some dirty work with him. And like any dad, this doesn't stop him from making her help out.
Quote #9
Her clansmen pointed and began to laugh. She called their names, reminded them of the memories they shared. There was no sign that they understood a word. (9.20)
In a dream, Shirley imagines that she's changed so much her cousins don't recognize her. She's afraid she's become so Americanized that the Wongs, still Chinese to the core, won't consider her one of them if she sees them again. Can family still be family even if people grow and change? Definitely.