The Poisonwood Bible

The Poisonwood Bible

by

Barbara Kingsolver

The Poisonwood Bible: Book 2, Chapter 23 Summary & Analysis

Summary
Analysis
Ruth May reports that Nathan and Leah flew away “on the plane.” This isn’t Axelroot’s plane, but a special charter plane, one sent by the Underdowns to transport the Prices out of the Congo. Nathan leaves in the airplane with Leah, claiming that they’ll be back soon. (We’re not told where they’re going.) Meanwhile, Orleanna sits in bed all day, too sick to get up. Rachel tries to take care of Orleanna, but to no avail. It’s very quiet in the house.
As this part of the novel progresses, we see the Prices in airplanes more and more often, reflecting the rapidly changing circumstances of the country. It’s poignant to see Rachel trying and failing to take care of her mother—Orleanna is a great provider, so when she’s sick, her children aren’t sure what to do.
Themes
Freedom, Growth, and Coming-of-age Theme Icon
Religion and Faith Theme Icon
Women and Sexism Theme Icon
Race, Racism, and Culture Theme Icon