How we cite our quotes: (Book.Chapter.Paragraph)
Quote #1
I used to threaten Ruth May's life so carelessly just to make her behave. Now I had to face the possibility that we really could lose her. (3.5.130)
Talk about a culture gap. We doubt the Congolese would threaten a child's life to make her behave, because death comes so easily there. Leah, who grew up where a child's death is the exception, doesn't have a problem with it... until Ruth May is on death's door with malaria.
Quote #2
If I die I will disappear and I know where I'll come back. I'll be right up there in the tree, same color, same everything. I will look down on you. But you won't see me. (3.12.8)
This Congolese "superstition" isn't much different than the idea of a Christian heaven. Ruth May believes she'll end up above (in a tree instead of the sky, but same diff), where she'll be able to watch everyone without being seen. Sounds almost the same to us.
Quote #3
In the eyes of our Lord Jesus Christ [every death matters]. Even the sparrows that fall out of their nest and what not. (3.16.33)
It's surprising to hear this attitude from Rachel, who acts as though she's superior to everyone else. We guess death is the great equalizer, even to her. (Although check out that totally Rachel-esque "what not" at the end there.)