Why is it initially so important for Mo to discover who her “Upstream Mother” is? How does Mo’s perspective change once the Colonel and Miss Lana are gone, and why does she experience this shift?

How does the town of Tupelo Landing act as a solid community? In what ways do they support one another, and how is it made clear that everyone in town is closely connected?

What is the symbolism behind hurricanes in the story? How might living in a place where hurricanes are a common threat influence the townspeople and their character?