Seedfolks, Paul Fleishman novel study: Gonzalo & Leona reflections

Gonzalo speaks English, whereas his relative Tio Juan, does not. They are both from Guatemala, same culture. Gonzalo is a young student; relative is an expert farmer. Gonzalo is involved in the community/has adapted; Tio Juan is like a fish out of water/culture shock. As an immigrant, you must adapt to a new way of life, environment and start from square one; you have to learn new customs, language, culture. Tio Juan is not able to (function) communicate in English with others and find work; he felt confused; instead he’s an expert gardener/farmer, just like Wendell. Theme: In life we all have to have a purpose, a calling, a vocation, a passion, a reason to wake up in the morning that keeps us going forward; In order to grow, you must also be open to change. Before the garden, Gonzalo’s Uncle felt lost, without a purpose, toddler-like, disconnected; after the garden, he now rediscovered his passion, rekindled his purpose in life, and will most likely teach and inspire others to garden. Gonzalo is proud of his Uncle and of the fact that he can now use his talents to help others, instead of wandering about at home aimlessly. It’s ironic that Leona’s grandmother outsmarted and outlived her doctors that are supposed to know better; it’s ironic that her natural herbal remedy was more effective than their traditional medications. It’s ironic that to get the garbage problem cleaned up, Leona had to show up with actual garbage in hand for the city to understand the problem. Leona wants the lot to be respected by everyone; she doesn’t want it to continue being a dumping ground; she wants people to take pride and ownership of the lot. It’s ironic that the lot is referred to as being “vacant” because it’s not really empty at all, it’s full of trash. Conflict: lot contamination and city workers not ignoring Leona Climax (high point in conflict): Leona showing up with garbage in hand Resolution: getting a meeting with someone from the Public Health Dept. Theme: in order to reach a goal, you have to find the right path, work hard, and never give up. Before the garden, Leona is ashamed and disappointed in her fellow residents that are disrespecting communal property. After the garden, Leona is hopeful and optimistic that her hard work will pay off in freeing the lot from the garbage problem. Leona is confident, relentless, determined, respectful, resourceful, problem-solver.