It seems like half the town of Manifest has some tragic family issue. Miss Sadie's separation from Ned; Ned not knowing where he comes from; Jinx's uncle's general horribleness; all the immigrants' families left behind in Europe; and what about Abilene and her dad, separated indefinitely? Mrs. Larkin is one of the rare ones whose family has lived in Manifest for generations—and she makes sure everybody knows it. But do people have to be related to be a real family in Moon Over Manifest? Not exactly. Over the course of the book, the entire community seems to come together as a family. Plus, we get bonus family discoveries—and that can never hurt.
Questions About Family
- Who is a more loving mother: Miss Sadie or Mrs. Larkin? Why?
- What would have happened if Miss Sadie had told Ned she was his mom right before he left for war? Would that have changed anything?
- Why do you think Shady has no family? Does that influence his actions?
Chew on This
If Miss Sadie had told Ned the truth, he would have been happier and would have never gone to war.
Your friends say more about you than your family. Look at Mrs. Larkin for proof.