Why does kek cry when he sees his mother In Home of The Brave?

In "Home of the Brave" by Katherine Applegate, Kek cries when he sees his mother because he experiences a wave of emotions tied to his longing and grief. Having been separated from his family during a traumatic journey to a new country, the sight of his mother evokes deep feelings of love, relief, and the pain of their separation. This moment highlights the strength of familial bonds and the emotional toll of displacement. Kek's tears represent both joy and sorrow, reflecting the complexities of his experience as an immigrant.