# Selina Takes the Reins explained — So Big

> Chapter companion for So Big by Edna Ferber.

## What happens

After Pervus's death, Selina DeJong defies the expectations of her High Prairie community by deciding to drive the farm's vegetable wagon to the Chicago Haymarket herself. Despite the shock and disapproval of neighbors, the hired hand Jan Steen, and even the Reverend Dekker, she prepares her produce meticulously and successfully navigates the chaotic market, claiming a prime spot and asserting her independence.

## Themes in this chapter

### Gender Roles and Independence

Selina defies the strict gender norms of High Prairie by driving to market herself, facing criticism from men and the community.

### Motherhood and Sacrifice

Selina's actions are driven by her determination to provide for Dirk's future, sacrificing her own comfort and reputation.

### Class and Social Mobility

Selina's struggle at the market highlights the economic pressures on small farmers and her desire to improve her son's prospects.

## Character check-ins

### Selina DeJong

Newly widowed, Selina takes over the farm work and decides to drive to market herself, showing determination and resilience.

### Dirk DeJong

Selina's young son, who accompanies her to the market, excited by the lights and activity.

### Jan Snip

The hired hand who fails at selling the vegetables and is shocked by Selina's plan to go to market.

### Reverend Dekker

The dour dominie who confronts Selina about her plan to go to the Haymarket, disapproving of a woman doing so.

### Pervus DeJong

Recently deceased; his absence forces Selina to take on the market duties.

### Chris Spanknoebel

Owner of a restaurant and saloon near the Haymarket; Selina hopes he will be kind to her and Dirk if needed.

## Key lines

> I'll go myself Monday.

Selina announces she will drive to the market herself on Monday.

_This declaration shocks Jan and the community, as it is unheard of for a woman to do so._

> A woman she don't go to market. A woman—

Jan argues that women do not go to market.

_Reflects the gender norms of the time that Selina is challenging._

> Woman ain't got no business here in Haymarket, anyway. Better you're home night time in your kitchen where you belong.

A German farmer tells Selina she has no place in the Haymarket and should be at home in her kitchen.

_This comment provokes Selina's angry response, showing her frustration with such restrictions._

> What good does it do a woman to stay home in her kitchen if she's going to starve there, and her boy with her!

Selina retorts that staying home is useless if it leads to starvation for her and her son.

_Highlights the practical necessity driving her defiance of social norms._

## Links

- HTML: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/so_big_se/chapters/x
- Book: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/so_big_se
- All chapters: https://www.betterreads.online/discover/so_big_se/chapters