When asking about books, I suggest using shmoop.com because it gives short but descriptive chapter-by-chapter summaries.
I think the answer is the reason for his absence is quite simple to understand.
Answer:
- It introduces the characters of Luciana and her
mother.
- It describes the setting where Luciana lives with her
mother.
- It sets up Luciana's situation and the conflict she
encounters.
Explanation:
