Character Analysis
The only other mail-order bride that the Witting family knows is their neighbor Maggie, who came from Tennessee. Maggie visits the Witting family and offers Sarah a great deal of comfort in her time of transition, helping Sarah understand that her feelings of loneliness and homesickness are totally normal:
"You are lonely, yes?" asked Maggie in her soft voice.
Sarah's eyes filled with tears. Slowly I stirred the dough.
Maggie reached over and took Sarah's hand.
"I miss the hills of Tennessee sometimes," she said. (7.11-14)
By extending friendship and support, Maggie helps Sarah to adjust to her new life—and gives her one more reason to stay. Thanks, Maggie.