Why does the author use the transition “surprisingly”? What does this word mean for the conch?

The author used the transition word "Surprisingly" to register the element of surprise which the tribe showed when the person indicated interest on addressing them.

The tribe has always known him to be an unserious person but was taken unawre by his indication of interest.

Explanation:

The statement where the transition word was used is given below:

"Surprisingly, there was silence now; the tribe were curious to hear what amusing thing he might have to say"

the answer is: round.

in literature, round characters are considerably complex and experience or are subjected to unpleasant situations. as a consequence, they go through crucial sentimental and psychological development, which can cause surprise in the readers. in this case, juan's dramatic transformation is related to the adversities he meets at school.