Daniel's Mood

S ynopsis "Daniel's Moods" finds the protagonist, Maricela Barker, a Filipina immigrant in the midsixties, a victim of domestic violence. She and her young son, Agustin, escape her violent husband, Randy, and move to Seattle, hoping to find help and for a better life within her community. She finds work as a freelance journalist, covering stories in the early seventies. Agustin blames her for the divorce, and Maricela believes he is growing apart from her. She wishes that he become involved in the culture and traditions and, much to his dismay, enrolls him in a local Filipino dance troupe. She fears the loss of tradition. They meet Daniel Mallon at the Filipino youth agency. Daniel helps coach basketball for boys Agustin's age. Maricela, against her desires, allows Agustin to join the team. Agustin comes to admire and respect Daniel. Daniel, in a moment of rage, is killed by the police. Maricela examines his life through interviews with his family and friends. She discovers he led a troubled and distressed family life brought on by abandonment. His life sounds a warning note as she fears Agustin may follow the same path. Through a dream, she encounters Daniel who helps her and Agustin resolve their problems.