Page 4: Character Analysis

This page delves into the main characters of the story: Jing-Mei and her mother.

Jing-Mei's character arc is described, from an initially obedient child eager for fame to a rebellious teenager overwhelmed by her mother's expectations. As an adult, she gains a more nuanced understanding of her mother's intentions.

Example: Jing-Mei's transformation from eager compliance to rebellion illustrates the complexities of growing up and forming one's identity.

Jing-Mei's mother is portrayed as a Chinese immigrant who arrived in America in 1949, leaving behind a tragic past. Her belief in the American Dream fuels her ambition to make her daughter a prodigy. Despite her disappointment when Jing-Mei rejects her plans, she mellows over time.

Vocabulary: Prodigy - A person, especially a child or young person, having extraordinary talent or ability.

Page 7: Character Analysis of "The Child"

This page provides a detailed character analysis for "The Child". Karen, the protagonist, is described as a pregnant 17-year-old black student, insecure but proud of her pregnancy despite its unplanned nature. Other characters include Karen's ambitious and religious mother, Phillip (the absent father), and symbolic figures on the train representing different aspects of society.

Example: The white girl on the train symbolizes Karen's unattainable dreams, while the drunk black man represents societal stereotypes and Karen's shame about her race.