1. Describe how Miss Lottie reacts to the events in “Marigold.” Use active voice. How is the story resolved? What does Miss Lottie do? Do not leave the story on a cliffhanger!

In “Marigolds,” Miss Lottie reacts with a mix of determination and vulnerability to the children’s taunts and the deterioration of her garden. Despite the ridicule she faces, she continues to nurture her marigolds, symbolizing her hope and resilience in a harsh environment. When the protagonist, Lizabeth, confronts Miss Lottie by destroying her beloved marigolds, Miss Lottie responds with sadness but also a profound understanding of the complexities of childhood and loss.

The story resolves with Lizabeth realizing the weight of her actions and feeling deep remorse for hurting someone who embodies beauty and care in her life. Miss Lottie, through her pain, maintains her dignity and refuses to let the actions of the children extinguish her spirit. Ultimately, she continues to tend to her marigolds, signifying her unwavering commitment to hope and beauty in a world filled with hardship. This resolution highlights the themes of empathy, growth, and the bittersweet nature of coming of age.