At the store a skinny man with a big red nose welcomed her with a smile. Encouraged, she opened her mouth wide to pronounce her first English words for an American. "Rukee Sike!"But instead of giving her the cigarettes, he rattled off a string of nonsensical sounds.What if she couldn't make him understand?
-- Shirley Wong (Chapter 2 paragraph Page 115)

Importance: This shows how Shirley realizes the language barrier problems in America. At this part she is trying to get cigarettes and thinks she is more prepared for life in America, and then this happens and puts things into perspective for her.

Your teacher suggests we take you to a doctor. She thinks there is something wrong with your eyes.
-- The Principal (Chapter 3 paragraph Page 45)

Importance: The quote shows that Shirley was having problems with the social aspects of America such as winking. Shirley didn't get the hang of it so she blinked constantly. This made the teachers think she had an...