by Laurie Halse Anderson
Symbolism, Imagery, Allegory
The Cook family garden is at the back of the coffeehouse and is a source of food for both the Cook family and their business. When Grandfather and Matilda return from the country, though, the garden is all dried up and overrun with weeds. Is it dead? Well, not exactly. Matilda must water the wilted plants and work the rows in order for the space to be restored to its former life. If the garden were a metaphor (hint: it sure is), what would it symbolize? Why is the image of a garden significant for this story?