Saving Sourdi Character Analysis

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Many can identify with what it means to be a sibling. Whether you are the oldest, youngest, or somewhere in between, you can most likely relate to the individual struggle within one. Being the oldest may carry the burden of responsibility and a sense of duty, and the youngest may feel a sense of entitlement. Whichever place one holds may depend on the person. Mai Lee Chai’s “Saving Sourdi” tells the story of two sisters who came to America with the hope of finding freedom. The two girls found anything but that. The younger sister Nea, takes the unusual role of the guardian, while the older sister Sourdi is atypically being cared for by Nea. An example of how Nea defies the role of a typical younger sister is evident in Nea’s level of maturity. When the sisters move to Texas with their mother, the sisters are placed in a position where they must work to support the family. Nea feels “proud” to be working in what she calls “our own restaurant” (137). Not many children of that age would be aware of the pride and integrity one would feel about working in a place that is family owned. She does not view this hard work negatively, but instead finds the value in, further Nea does not have the luxury of being a typical younger sister because she must care for her older sister. Sourdi’s inability to care for herself, sparks Nea’s need to care for them both. One example of her urgency and dedication to her sister is shown in the story when Nea takes it upon herself to go rescue Sourdi from her new home. Nea stands strong in her conviction to help her sister saying “You have to drive me to Des Moines. We have to get her.” (Chai 145). This atypical swap shows the importance of varying tendencies among family units, and displays the strength of a younger sister when she faces the need to protect and save her older sister

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