Reading Response #2

   In the book "The evolution of Calpurnia Tate" by Jacqueline Tate is all about the growth in Calpurnia's imagination and how it effects her outside life. As her scientific curiosity grows, so does her relatonship with her grandfather. The story takes place in the early 1900's late 1800's making the time and environment very controversial for female children. I think the theme that Jaqueline Kelly is trying to emphasize is that imagination is key because curiosity and similarities are what build relationships.
 
   The first reason I think this is because of something Calpurnia says towards the begining of the book. She is talking about her relationship with her Grandfather. "The Origin of Species. Here, in my own house. I recieved it in both my hands. He smiled. Thus begin my Relationship with granddaddy." This is what made me come up with my theory on the theme of the book. When I read this line I immediately knew what the Author was trying to say because the only people that Calpurnia has good relationships with in her family are her brother Harry and her Granddaddy. The reason why is because she shares common curiosities with both of them. Harry constantly inquires about what Calpurnia is thinking about and her Grandfather becomes her scientific mentor.
 
   The second reason was because of way calpurnia describes her grand father. She speaks of him in a very detailed manor and speaks of her constant devotion and compassion for him. Here, for example. "I had learned for sure: You could not win when it came to class insecta, order Lepidoptera. We would have to make a study of it, my loving and newfound grandfather." Well that just makes it so obvious! There, it says it right there. The reason that she loves him and cares for him so much is because he understands how she feels about science. Especially since her mother wants her to go to school to learn how to sew and walk in a proper manor.

   In conclusion I most definitely think the theme of this book is that curiosity and imagination create relationships. I mean, the amount of text evidence supporting such a theme is impressive. Besides, it can be related to real life. People who share common interests bond well. In fact, almost as well as Calpurnia and her Grandfather.