Far From the Tree

Maya feels like she has spent her whole life looking out for her younger sister. What does this tell the reader about expectations placed on older siblings?

Maya and Joaquin express no interest in finding their birth mother. Why is Grace different? Why does she change her mind after 16 years of indifference?

Maya uses sarcasm instead of expressing her feelings honestly, but around Chapter 11, her bottled-up emotions start to morph into anger. How does Maya’s experience serve as a cautionary tale to readers?

As a child, Joaquin realized that no one would show up for his school functions, and no one would congratulate him on his successes. How has this realization shaped Joaquin into the person he is?

When Rafe refers to Grace’s biological mother as her “mom,” Grace quickly corrects him and says she already has a mom. Why is Grace so quick to correct Rafe? What does this tell the reader about the importance of the language around “mom” versus “bio mom”?

Within minutes of meeting his sisters, Joaquin finds himself ready to jump into action to protect and defend them. What does this detail suggest about the nature of family bonds? What does it suggest about Joaquin’s character?

In a moment of intense anger, Joaquin yells at Mark and Linda and asks them if they really think that adopting him will “make everything go away.” What is Joaquin referring to? Why is he angry with Mark and Linda for wanting to adopt him?

During her delivery, Grace feels like Peach is trying to get out of her body so that she can join her “real” parents, Daniel and Catalina. Why does Grace feel this way?