How do I turn the words of an author into a direct quote

What do the excerpts have in common? both point out the tragic nature of situations in which children make journeys without their parents. both describe what immigrant children must do to survive when traveling to the united states. both explain why most children want to leave central america without their parents. both indicate the tragic problems and their consequences that children in central america must face.

In at least 150 words, identify and describe the setting, and the way the author uses imagery to describe it for part 1 of nectar in a sieve.

In at least 150 words, discuss the symbolic significance of janie’s hair in their eyes were watching god