Saigon Barbies

The Saigon Barbies are symbolic of white saviorism. Charlene develops the fundraising scheme after Lily sews an ao dai for Rainey’s doll. She thinks the plan will help her help the less fortunate Vietnamese citizens. However, the dolls reveal the white American characters’ social biases and cultural misconceptions.

Leprosarium

The leprosarium that Patricia visits with her new friends is symbolic of invasion. Patricia, Charlene, Dominic, and Wally travel to the leprosarium in order to measure and make new clothes for the individuals living there. However, their presence at the colony is disruptive and acts as a micro representation of America’s presence in Vietnam during the war.

Jamie's Rock

The rock that Jamie gives to Rainey is symbolic of humanity. When Rainey first meets Jamie, she judges him because of his appearance and his mental atypicality. When Jamie gives Rainey the rock, she begins...