Summary

In Chapter 15, Sophia reflects on her knowledge that very small islands in the ocean have turf instead of soil. A small island only grows flowers if there is enough snow the previous winter. Sophia feels sorry for the flowers that do not get to bloom every year. Sophia’s father receives flower catalogues and seeds from Holland. The next spring, everything he planted begins to grow. He buys an enormous plastic hose to help irrigate his land.

In Chapter 16, Sophia and Grandmother stand outside to see a huge yacht passing by. Her father goes aboard the boat. The boat is playing music, and Sophia begs to join the party. They go back inside and fall asleep and the boat leaves. Sophia is upset the next morning. Grandmother consoles her.

In Chapter 17, Sophia’s father fertilizes his plants with the grounds from the coffee...