How is motherhood depicted in the work?

Octavia’s mother is depicted as supportive and willing to sacrifice anything for her daughter. She encouraged her to pursue her interest in writing as a full-time career even when others tried to convince Octavia that she could not be successful due to her race or gender. She bought her first typewriter so she could begin submitting stories to magazines and visualizing her future. Octavia Butler never became a mother herself, but the kindness and regard she had for her mother speaks volumes to the strength of their relationship, especially in light of losing her father as a child.

How is Octavia's childhood portrayed?

Octavia was a child with an exceptionally vivid imagination, but she did not display as much interest in socializing like the others. She was always more comfortable being on her own and exploring her mind or...