Answer:
"The Banana Tree" is a short story by Jamaican author James Berry. Gustus is a 13-year-old boy, the son of Mr. Bass. His father is a big man, not only physically speaking. Mr. Bass is seen as a reliable man of faith, who is friends with his community. However, Gustus' relationship with his father, at the beginning of the story, is filled with resentment. Gustus knows Mr. Bass is proud of him, of how big and strong he is. Yet, he feels unseen, misunderstood. Mr. Bass does not like what he likes, does not support his passion for cricket, and does not see his son's social needs - such as new shoes to go out with his friends.
Gustus has been taking care of a banana tree that was planted when he was born. Buried with the seed is Gustus' umbilical cord. In a way, Gustus and the tree are connected - his umbilical cord is nourishing the tree. He hopes to sell the fruit to buy himself the shoes he wants so much, but a hurricane hits his town. Gustus ends up leaving his family behind in the shelter to go prevent his precious bananas from being destroyed. However, the storm is vicious and hurts him badly.
At the end of the story, Mr. Bass and a searching party find Gustus. He asks his son what he did that for, and Gustus tells him the truth. Their relationship is immediately changed. Not only is Mr. Bass relieved to find his son alive, but he also begins to understand Gustus' needs. He even takes off his own boots to put them on his boy.
Explanation:
