Chapters 17-19 Summary and Analysis

In Chapter 17, "New Zealand Via Bali," Rita goes back to check on her friends to make sure that they are financially all right. She finds a different world than the one that she left. Her time there is bittersweet. She enjoys seeing everybody, but she sees how hard their life has become. In the past, she was unable to give them any gifts without their returning something to her. Now they are a bit more accepting, but she has to be careful how she offers gifts so she doesn't hurt their pride.

When she leaves Bali, Rita heads off to New Zealand. A friend of a friend is meeting her, and she is able to purchase their old car. It takes some adjustment to learn how to drive on the left side of the road. Rita is looking for...