Significance of Papa’s Coat

When Chula and her family hurriedly leave Colombia, the coat of Papa's that they take with them represents one of the few links they have with him after he has been kidnapped. When they arrive at their new home in America, the coat hangs in the closet, and Mama brushes it regularly, taking care of it and preserving it in the same way as she is taking care of, and preserving, her memory of him; her love for him; and her hope that he will be returned home.