Whether you believe that or any of the things I tell you is up to you.
-- Amah (chapter 2 paragraph 4)

Importance: A critical aspect of Pinmei's character development is learning to determine for herself what is true and what she believes. In this quote, Amah first begins to help Pinmei make the connection from the stories she hears and what lessons Pinmei finds most personally meaningful from those stories.

Pinmei!" Yishan said in frustration. "You think and think and watch and watch. When are you going to stop watching? It's time to do something!
-- Yishan (chapter 8 paragraph 3)

Importance: In the beginning of the story, Pinmei is timid and mouselike, but through the events that make up this story, she finds her courage. The attack on her village is the opportunity she needs to transition from thinking and watching to actively participating and making an impact.

The little girl did her aunt and uncle a favor,'...
-- Aunt Meiya (chapter 11 paragraph 3)