How we cite our quotes: (Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #7
When she opened them again, there stood a giant bed fit for an emperor. Shirley threw herself on the mattress and lolled about like a fish tossed back to the sea. "How did you do it, Father? How?"
But before he could say a word, she shouted, "I know. It's just another wonderful engine made in America. (8.21-22)
Here's another new thing Shirley loves about America: She's got a new sofa bed, something she didn't have at home in China. It's just another one of the new and luxurious treats she associates with America, including opportunities she hasn't had before.
Quote #8
It was many evenings and weekends before Shirley realized the treasure her father had mined from the basement. With his alchemy of ingenuity and patience, he transmuted the junk into valued presents for every tenant who lived at Number Four Willow Street. (8.43)
Shirley's dad is turning trash into treasures by digging up some old junk from the basement, restoring them to their former glory, and giving them to the tenants. Shirley sees the unlimited opportunities latent in such small little things and how they can help others. It's like the American Dream—unlimited chances hidden around every corner.
Quote #9
She began to see things she had failed to see before. Once again, her parents had slept through the alarm. But only now did she realize it was because of the long hours they worked. Worked to keep a promise she had made for them to the Señora. Worked to build a new life for them in America. Worked without complaint, always with cheer. (9.151)
The American Dream isn't without a price, though—you've got to work hard to play hard and enjoy all these great opportunities. Shirley's parents can be annoying, but they plug away at their jobs without complaining at all to give her a great life. As a result of their efforts, Shirley was able to move somewhere that offers her all sorts of great options.