“He gathered what moisture he could from his parched throat, licked his lips, and whispered a vow to himself that he would live.” 

This quote highlights the challenges Muhammad faced during his captivity, and the strength of his character. It is also significant that, despite his young age, Muhammad survived, while many of his fellow countrymen did not.

“Now he saw their faces, their eyes, the hands that would say so much to him with a touch. He thought of his mother thinking of him, wondering where he was, and his eyes filled with tears.” 

This quote highlights Muhammad’s isolation and fear. He is confused and disoriented. He does not know what has happened to his parents, and doesn’t know if they know what has happened to him.  

“The way between the big house and the quarters, and then from the quarters to the fields, was all she had traveled during her thirteen years.”

This emphasizes the sheltered and isolated life which Lizzy has led up until this point, having only lived on the Live Oaks plantation.