In chapter seven, Beka recalls the local store owned by Mr Gordillo who always prays for Beka and her family and who makes Beka aware of the sacrifices her parents have made to send her to the private convent school she attends. Unfortunately, she has failed her grade and whilst she has lied about it, she is beginning to accept responsibility by admitting it to Mr Gordillo.
Beka also remembers her grandfather’s visit and the reader learns a little about Beka’s heritage. Her grandfather is half English and hankers after visiting England if he can “get a pile together” and save up enough money. Beka’s mother suggests that they have faith in their own country but her father suggests that it is “wiser to invest abroad.” Beka had never met her grandfather before so there is also a distance between him and his family.
Next Beka remembers the bougainvillea that she planted which unexpectedly grew large and caused some disagreement with the neighbors. “Peace and happiness” is really all Beka’s mother wants and she does not wish to upset anyone and, although the bougainvillea was planted successfully by Beka, it is more important to maintain calm between neighbors. The bougainvillea somehow symbolizes Beka’s potential for Granny Ivy who is not happy at it being cut down.
