Amerigo and his mother do not have a close relationship. Although she works hard to try to provide for him, she is distant, perhaps feels he is more of a burden than she can handle.So when an opportunity appears to send him north and relieve the pressure, he travels with other children to find sustenance both in food and kindness. Impressed on his young mind is that life can be better than what his mother can provide, and he will strive as he ages, for a better life, perhaps disavowing his old life, including his mother.