"The Bean Trees" by Barbara Kingsolver

Paper Summary:

This paper examines the true meaning of family as the overriding subject in the book "The Bean Trees" by Barbara Kingsolver. The paper explains that throughout the novel, 'family' is a major theme for nearly all of the characters. The paper points out that all the characters in the book did not actually have to be blood kin to be family. The paper then notes that this knowledge is an incredibly assuring thing for them to realize; even if one thinks he or she is alone in the world, with no one to care for them, they have support through their closest friends, in other words, their family.

From the Paper:

"When the novel first begins, the only thing Taylor wants is to get out of the small Kentucky town in which she grew up. When she was ready and able, she hopped into her car with the hopes of finding somewhere better, and never looking back. To her misfortune, a tiny Indian baby was left in her care, unwanted by everyone else in the world (24). However, a baby was the last thing Taylor wanted as well. Both she and the baby were alone at that point, despite the fact that they were driving in the same car. This all changes when Taylor begins to take care of the child. She starts to care about her, even gives her a name, Turtle. Now, instead of having no one, they become a small family. Despite of this, the pair still seemed to be on their own."

Sample of Sources Used:

• "Family." Merriam Webster Online Dictionary. 2007. Merriam-Webster Inc. 4 Feb. 2008 <http://m-w.com/dictionary>.
• Kingsolver, Barbara. The Bean Trees. 2005.

More papers on "The Bean Trees" by Barbara Kingsolver:

• Analytical Essay # 123226 : "'The Bean Trees' and Motherhood"
• Essay # 70666 : "The Orange Trees"

APA Citation:

MLA Citation: