I think you got your question and answer choices mixed up.
For the actual question, the answer is: They represent the next generation of children and suggest the need for protection.
For the correct answer out of the choices: The stories that Thomas tells and his desire to be listened to allow Alexie to show that telling and listening to stories is an important way people shape and understand their lives.
I took the test and got 100% so I know both answers! lol
The referring to one self with pronouns such as "I" or saying phrases such as "he told me" along with narration of personal thoughts (but that is contextual)
I confirmed the answer as C. It shows the VC's coordination in the face of obstacles to emphasize the challenging nature of the environment. Through Apex