Character Analysis
Dale and Lavender's mama is a true Southern lady. She's gracious, feminine, and always caring—but that doesn't mean that she's weak. Even though Miss Rose may seem like a delicate flower (especially with that name), in the end she shows everyone that she's made of steel. Miss Rose kicks out her abusive husband even when he continues to threaten her:
"[…] Who does she think she is, telling me to get out of my own house?"
"Miss Rose threw you out?" I said. "Does Dale know? Because it's news to me." (12.85-86)
Miss Rose reveals at the end that she's started her own small business giving tours of the old tobacco farm. Miss Rose doesn't need a man to take care of her, and she's a super brave lady for getting herself—and Dale—out of an abusive situation.