Sparrow

Sparrows are mentioned several times in the novel. The symbolic meaning of a sparrow is the mother who is always foraging and providing for those in her nest. Laura, in this story, could be considered a sparrow who is always trying to do what is best for her family once Justin is returned.

Dolphin

As Laura mentions in the book after studying dolphins, she finds that they are caring, tender creatures who will rescue others in distress whether it is another dolphin, another animal, or a human, and they will carry the distressed being to the surface and help it get air, strength, and buoyancy. Animals are also helpful to people in distress as a way of calming them and taking their minds off of things that are troubling them. Caring for an animal can make a person feel good about himself/herself.

Independence

Justin and...