Characters
Salamanca Tree Hiddle (Sal)
Thirteen-year-old Sal in "Walk Two Moons" navigates a whirlwind of grief, confusion, and ultimately, self-discovery. The sudden disappearance of her mother leaves her grappling with unanswered questions, anger simmering beneath the surface. Trust wavers, replaced by isolation as she attempts to comprehend the unfairness of her reality.
Seeking solace, Sal channels her emotions into crafting captivating stories for her grandparents. Weaving her own experiences with the fictional narrative of Phoebe, she explores complex emotions and gains perspective on her own situation. The Kentucky farm, though physically distant, remains a source of comfort. Nature and family history become anchors, offering a sense of belonging amidst the upheaval.
Fueled by a desperate need for answers, Sal embarks on a journey, both on the road and within herself. Both her story and Phoebe's reflect this quest. Confronting the truth about her mother's disappearance becomes a daunting yet necessary step toward healing and acceptance.
As the truth unveils its layers, Sal's understanding of her mother evolves. Anger gradually melts into a fragile grasp of her motivations and sacrifices. This newfound understanding paves the way for forgiveness, not only for her mother but also for herself.
Despite the pain and challenges, Sal emerges more resilient. She learns to face difficult emotions, lean on support systems, and tap into her inner strength. The book concludes with her crafting her own story, signifying her determination to shape her future and embrace the possibilities that lie ahead.
Sal's journey is a testament to the enduring power of resilience in the face of adversity. Her experience with grief, self-discovery, and forgiveness leaves a lasting impression, reminding readers of the healing power of storytelling and the strength found within.
Phoebe Winterbottom
Phoebe Winterbottom is a complex and multifaceted character whose journey of self-discovery unfolds alongside the protagonist, Salamanca "Sal" Tree Hiddle. Initially presented as a seemingly ordinary teenage girl, Phoebe's character gradually reveals layers of depth and vulnerability as the story progresses.
Phoebe is initially portrayed as a somewhat superficial and judgmental character, quick to form opinions and jump to conclusions about those around her. She is preoccupied with appearances and social status, often dismissing others based on superficial impressions. However, as Sal befriends Phoebe and delves deeper into her life, the reader begins to unravel the complexities of Phoebe's character.
Beneath her façade of confidence and aloofness, Phoebe harbors deep-seated insecurities and fears stemming from her mother's sudden disappearance and her family's subsequent struggles. Phoebe's obsession with the mysterious "lunatic," whom she believes is responsible for her mother's disappearance, reflects her desperate need to make sense of the chaos in her life and regain a sense of control.
Throughout the novel, Phoebe grapples with loss, grief, and identity, struggling to come to terms with her mother's absence and her own sense of self-worth. Her journey of self-discovery is marked by moments of vulnerability and growth as she confronts her fears and learns to open herself up to others.
Phoebe's character arc is ultimately one of resilience as she navigates the complexities of adolescence and the challenges of family turmoil. By the novel's conclusion, Phoebe emerges as a stronger and more compassionate individual, capable of embracing life's uncertainties and finding solace in the bonds of friendship and family. Through Phoebe's character, Creech explores the universal themes of identity, resilience, and the transformative power of human connection.
Sal's Mother
Analyzing Sal's mother requires navigating the labyrinth of Sal's memories and interpretations. Though physically absent, she casts a long shadow over the narrative, demanding piecing together the fragments of a complex puzzle.
Sal remembers her mother as a tapestry of contradictions: vibrant, passionate, and deeply affected by social injustices, advocating for equality with a strong will and independent spirit. Yet, these traits seem to clash with her roles as wife and mother. Sal hints at frustration, describing her mother's dissatisfaction with domesticity and longing for change. This internal conflict, possibly amplified by personal struggles, culminates in the enigmatic decision to leave.
While Sal initially harbors anger and resentment, the novel subtly plants seeds of understanding. As she delves deeper, acknowledging her mother's pain becomes evident. The postcard snippets reveal a yearning for self-discovery and a desperate search for peace. The truth about her illness adds another layer, suggesting sacrifices made and unspoken challenges faced. This complexity challenges a one-dimensional portrayal of an abandoning parent, forcing Sal to confront the realities of mental health and societal pressures. Each detail, from her love of nature to her artistic spirit, becomes a brushstroke depicting a missing portrait. This exploration serves as Sal's own healing process.
The novel doesn't offer easy answers or perfect mothers. Instead, it paints a nuanced picture of a woman struggling with societal expectations, personal demons, and the complexities of motherhood. By the end, Sal's understanding evolves. Forgiveness, not necessarily condoning, but acknowledging the limitations and sacrifices involved, begins to bloom.
Through Sal's eyes, we see the challenges women face, the weight of societal expectations, and the complexities of love and loss. Her lingering presence serves as a powerful reminder that mothers, even absent ones, leave an indelible mark on their children's lives.
Sal’s Father
In "Walk Two Moons," Sal's father presents a complex figure, his portrayal interwoven with Sal's grief and evolving understanding. While he is physically present, his emotional distance creates a distinct dynamic in the narrative.
Sal remembers him as kind, gentle, and almost too good to be true. He embodies stability and unwavering support, a safe haven amidst the storm of her mother's absence. His grief manifests quietly, highlighting his devotion but leaving Sal yearning for a deeper emotional connection. His love is undeniable, expressed through practical care and quiet understanding. He allows Sal space to navigate her emotions, even when they challenge him.
However, this very gentleness fuels Sal's frustration. She desires a more assertive presence, someone to grapple with the pain openly. His perceived passivity creates a void, leaving Sal to question his love and commitment.
Gradually, Sal's perception shifts. Through flashbacks and his interactions with others, we realize that he carries his grief silently, burdened by responsibility and concern for Sal. His love takes a different form, prioritizing stability and emotional safety for his daughter. This realization dawns on Sal, leading to a newfound appreciation for his quiet strength and unwavering support.
As the story progresses, Sal's father embarks on his own healing journey. He begins to share stories and memories, allowing himself to grieve openly. This emotional vulnerability strengthens their bond, fostering trust and understanding. He demonstrates that healing is not linear but a personal journey with its own pace and challenges. Ultimately, the evolving nature of Sal and her father's relationship becomes a testament to the power of communication, understanding, and the multifaceted nature of love and loss.
Gram and Gramps
Gram and Gramps, Sal's vibrant grandparents, are a dynamic duo in "Walk Two Moons." Their characters defy easy categorization, weaving humor, wisdom, and love into the fabric of Sal's journey.
Gram, affectionately dubbed "Gooseberry," embodies an unconventional spirit. Her quirky personality, bordering on mischievous, often leaves Sal both flustered and entertained. From their first encounter, Gram challenges expectations, embracing spontaneity and refusing to be limited by age or societal norms. She acts as a confidante, readily listening to Sal's anxieties and offering comfort without judgment.
Gramps, with his raspy voice and curious nature, complements Gram perfectly. He shares his life experiences through captivating stories and anecdotes, which become life lessons for Sal, instilling values of courage, resilience, and connection to her heritage.
Their love story, built on mutual respect and shared humor, adds another layer to their characters. Theirs is a partnership grounded in acceptance and support, offering Sal a stable and loving environment amid the turmoil of her own family situation.
However, Gram and Gramps are not without flaws. Their occasional bouts of "borrowing" and impulsiveness test Sal's patience, highlighting the inherent tension between generations. Despite their lighthearted nature, moments of vulnerability reveal the pain they carry from past experiences.
Through their unique approach, Gram and Gramps become pivotal figures in Sal's healing process. They challenge her preconceived notions of adulthood, demonstrating that age is no barrier to joy, humor, and emotional depth. Their presence serves as a testament to the multifaceted nature of family, the power of laughter and resilience, and the enduring impact of love and understanding.
