“The Banana Tree” by James Berry is a short story set in a Caribbean village during a hurricane. The story primarily focuses on the character of Gustus, a young boy who is deeply connected to a banana tree that was planted over his umbilical cord at birth. Gustus wants to sell his bananas to buy a pair of shoes so he can join his friends in various outings and activities. However, as the hurricane approaches, Gustus becomes determined to protect his beloved banana tree from being uprooted by the fierce winds.
During the storm, Gustus goes to great lengths to secure the tree with props and ropes, risking his safety. Eventually, he is knocked unconscious and injured while trying to save the tree. His father, Mr. Bass, searches for him and finds Gustus injured but alive. Gustus explains his desire for shoes and how he couldn’t participate in various activities due to his lack of footwear. Mr. Bass, moved by his son’s dedication, decides not to punish him but instead to provide him with his own boots.
The story explores themes of family, sacrifice, and the connection between people and their roots. It highlights Gustus’s determination to protect the symbol of his birth and his longing for opportunities that require him to have shoes. Ultimately, the hurricane changes the relationship between Gustus and his father, leading to a deeper understanding and empathy between them.
CHARACTERS and PLOT
Characters:
Gustus: Gustus is the protagonist of the story. He is a young boy living in a Caribbean village. He has a deep attachment to a banana tree that was planted over his umbilical cord at birth. Gustus is determined to protect the tree and its fruit, as it symbolizes his connection to his family and his aspirations for personal growth.
Mr. Bass: Mr. Bass is Gustus’s father. He plays a significant role in the story, especially in the latter part. Initially, he is portrayed as strict and concerned about Gustus’s actions. However, as the story progresses, he comes to understand and appreciate Gustus’s dedication and sacrifices.
The plot:
The plot of “The Banana Tree” revolves around Gustus’s efforts to protect his beloved banana tree during a hurricane and his longing for a pair of shoes. The story can be divided into the following key events:
Exposition:
The story is set in a Caribbean village facing an impending hurricane.
Gustus, the young protagonist, is introduced, and his strong connection to a banana tree is established.
Gustus expresses his desire to sell the bananas from the tree to buy a pair of shoes so he can participate in outings and activities with his friends.
Rising Action:
As the hurricane approaches, Gustus becomes determined to secure the banana tree against the powerful winds.
He works tirelessly to prop up the tree with supports and ropes, risking his own safety.
The villagers seek shelter in a community building as the storm intensifies.
Climax:
Gustus is knocked unconscious and injured while trying to save the banana tree during the hurricane’s fury.
His father, Mr. Bass, searches for him and eventually finds Gustus injured but alive. This moment represents the peak of tension and conflict in the story.
Falling Action:
Gustus explains his desire for shoes and how he couldn’t participate in various activities due to his lack of footwear.
Mr. Bass, moved by Gustus’s dedication and sacrifice, decides not to punish him but instead provides him with his own boots.
Resolution:
The story ends with a deeper understanding and empathy between Gustus and his father.
Gustus and his family weathered the hurricane together, emphasizing the importance of family bonds and sacrifices.
The central themes of family, determination, and the power of nature are woven throughout the plot, making “The Banana Tree” a compelling and emotionally resonant story.
You can download the story pdf HERE
About the Author
Neha has been teaching English for about 10 years. She has trained and mentored students of different age groups for spoken English, IELTS, campus recruitment, competitive exams like SSC, IBPS and CAT, group discussions, and interviews. Currently, she is working as a freelancer, training Indian American students for SAT, mentoring Indian students for IELTS and placements. She is passionate about teaching, blogging, and editing videos. She has published 2 e-books “A Word A Day” and “Grammar Notes by Neha” which are available on Amazon. Her special skills include English grammar, proofreading, copy-editing, communication skills, and counseling. In her free time, she loves honing her skills, learning more courses, and spending time with her family. Her life purpose is to MAKE A DIFFERENCE.
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