The Earth Mother feels unusually restless to me, as if uncomfortable changes are coming."
-- Leda (Chapter 1)

Importance: This quote is important because it foreshadows Leda's death. It also foreshadows the climax of the novel, in which the whole world is turned upside down when Mari releases the Earth Walkers from the Farm.

I know you don't want to hear this, but the truth is I'm sorry you and Mama met. Mama would have found a Clansman to love, and I would have been born looking like, feeling like, a normal Earth Walker. Mama wouldn't be so alone. I wouldn't be so alone.
-- Mari (Chapter 4)

Importance: This quote is important because it shows the resentment Mari feels towards her father, who she is speaking aloud to. It also shows that she feels ostracized from her clan, which is an essential part of her character.

Mari bend back to the sketch, working on bringing the younger, hope-filled version...
-- Mari (Chapter 4)