Poverty

Poverty is not just the theme of "Yonnondio." The book is practically written on pages of poverty, bound with need and want, and written in the language of poverty. The Holbrooks are so poor that it influences everything in their lives, and they can never forget it. Jim has to work long hours, not just at jobs that he hates, but at jobs that are likely to kill him. Even though Anna is occupied full-time just trying to take care of the house and children, she finds it necessary to take in laundry, or do extra cleaning for wealthier people, just to have enough money to keep some food on the table. The family's diet tends to contain two food items at any given time. Anna and the children are often sick, but there is no money for medicine. The family is trapped in a cycle of poverty...