When Phoenix Jackson finally arrives at the end of her journey, she is so tired she can barely remember specific elements of her mission. Nevertheless, she does arrive safely, and, with the assistance of an impatient nurse, she accomplishes her intended objective of obtaining the medicine for her grandson. Although Phoenix has a challenging encounter with one white man along the way, he allows her to continue traveling and does not harm her.

While Phoenix shows tenacity in persevering until she reaches her destination and not allowing the hunter to distract her, she also shows resilience. Clearly, as the title implies, this was not the first time that she had made the journey. Not only are the staff familiar with her when she arrives at the clinic, but she also knows the numerous landmarks she encounters along the way. The reader does not learn how she had navigated the various obstacles on past trips, but it is made evident that she has a strong ability to solve each problem that comes her way.

Despite her advanced age, she thinks creatively in arriving at a solution. What matters to Phoenix is her grandson’s health, and once again on this outing, she refuses to be deterred from accomplishing the goal of acquiring whatever he needs—and even managing to add a treat for him.