Esperanza Rising

Zach Konieczny

Esperanza

• “Mama would give her something she had made: linens, camisoles or blouses embroidered with her beautiful needlework” (pg. 10)

• She was rich and spoiled and wore dresses all the time

• She was beautiful but stubborn

Miguel

• “There is more than one way to get what you want in this country. Maybe I must be more determined than others to succeed, but I know that will happen.” (pg. 222-223)

• Personality Trait.• The quote explains that Miguel is

determined and ready to face both bad and good times.

Mama

• “Mama slept and didn't wake even to say hello” (pg. 177).

• Personality Trait.

• The quote shows that Mama is sick and doesn’t wake up much once she sleeps

El Rancho de las Rosas

• “Because she couldn’t imagine living anywhere other than El Rancho de las Rosas.” (pg. 8)

• Was home to Esperanza and was full of roses and grapes.

Mexican Camp Reserve a.k.a. The Camp

• “In her room, she sat on the edge of the cot. Her face flushed again at the thought of the ridicule.”(pg. 117)

• “The Camp” was a Mexican work reserve for immigrants when they came to America in the 1930’s. They had Jamacas (a type of party) on Saturdays.

The Striker’s Camp

• “Dangling from a tree branch were the remnants of the little donkey pinata that she had given the children, its tissue streamers fluttering in the breeze.” (pg. 213)

• This is where all the people going on strike were. It was very rundown, and they had virtually nothing, including no bathrooms!

Problem 1: The House Fire

• Papa passed away and Tio Luis wants to marry Mama because she is so loved in Mexico. Mama rejects Luis’ offer and he burns their home and grapes. Talk about anger management issues.

Problem 2:Moving to the camp and working.

• Mama, Miguel, Esperanza, Hortensia, Alfonso, and Mama escape Tio Luis and work in America. Esperanza is not trained for work, causing a major problem.

Problem 3: Mama’s Sickness

• Mama got caught in a dust storm, and she got Valley Fever. Valley Fever is caused by dust spores getting into the body, from the dust storm. Esperanza and everyone else must work twice as hard due to this sickness.

Story Critique

• I thought Esperanza Rising was very good. I think so because it shows the struggles of everyday life. It also has a great storyline that is somewhat easy to follow.

• I think people who like coming of age books should read this. I also recommend this book for ages 12-16.

• If you want to know what happens to Abuelita, Mama, Esperanza and the rest of the gang, read the book!