The Poisonwood Bible

The Poisonwood Bible

by

Barbara Kingsolver

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The Poisonwood Bible: Book 4, Chapter 60 Summary & Analysis

Summary
Analysis
Rachel has just learned from Leah and Adah that Ruth May is dead. Rachel, as the eldest child, decides that she will tell her parents of the accident. It’s extremely early in the morning, and she’s scared of what she’s about to say to Orleanna and Nathan.
Interestingly, it’s Rachel who steps up to tell Orleanna about Ruth May’s death—for all her superficiality and immaturity, she has certain duties as the eldest child, and she knows it.
Themes
Freedom, Growth, and Coming-of-age Theme Icon
Women and Sexism Theme Icon
Rachel has spent the last year pretending that her life in the Congo isn’t real. But now that Ruth May is gone, she can’t pretend anymore—her sister’s death brings home the shocking reality of her life in Africa.
Rachel survives by holding herself aloof from her community and the people around her. But there are certain things that are simply too big to ignore.
Themes
Freedom, Growth, and Coming-of-age Theme Icon
Women and Sexism Theme Icon
Race, Racism, and Culture Theme Icon
Imperialism Theme Icon
Quotes