Pearl's mother, Aurora, immigrated to the United States to meet her American suitor. As a Filipina, she struggled to be accepted into her new culture. Although, she was quick to learn the foreign ways of her new country; she continued to honor her culture, a knowledge she passes on to her daughter, Pearl. Once Pearl grows up, she decides it is time to see her mother's birthplace. As soon as Pearl lands in the Philippines, she feels at home. She feels as though she learned about her home country through her mother's stories. She is at ease in the warm breeze, surrounded by the sound of the native tongue. She immerses herself in the culture and catches the eye of a wealthy local matriarch. The older woman thinks Pearl would make a perfect wife for her grandson. Pearl is soon spoiled and courted by the whole family, but a tragedy steals her dreams. She is cast out and must now find a way to still love the country of her mother's birth--the country that hurt her. Aurora was a strong woman in a foreign place; her daughter can be too.