How do the characters in My Antonia demonstrate a universal appeal?

The characters in My Antonia have universal appeal because they could be anyone, and often, they are just like us. They are immigrants, farmers, children seeking an education, people deemed different, non-english language speakers, people who struggle to make a living, families that celebrate the holidays as best they can. They are people who help each other, show compassion, grant assistance, and often, they are people who move on to follow their dreams.