Motivation & Goals
Why does Enrique decide to leave Honduras?
He wants to reunite with his mother in the United States.
What dangers does Enrique face while riding the freight trains?
Dangers include gangs, falling from trains, and harsh travel conditions.
How do townspeople sometimes help Enrique along the journey?
Some townspeople give him food or water along the journey.
How does Enrique demonstrate resilience?
By continuing his journey despite danger, hunger, and exhaustion.
What does Enrique’s journey teach about the importance of family?
Family is shown as a central motivator and source of hope.
What is Enrique’s main goal during his journey?
His main goal is to reach his mother safely.
How does hunger affect Enrique during his journey?
Hunger weakens him physically but does not stop him from moving forward.
What strategies do other migrants use to survive?
Other migrants may share advice, warn him of danger, or show him survival tactics.
What traits help Enrique survive under difficult circumstances?
Traits include courage, determination, resourcefulness, and resilience.
How is determination portrayed as essential for survival?
Determination is essential for survival; without it, he could give up.
How does his desire to reunite with his mother influence his decisions?
It motivates him to take risks and keep going despite danger.
What role does exhaustion play in his daily struggle?
Exhaustion makes traveling difficult, but he pushes through it.
How do authority figures (police, officials) treat Enrique?
Authorities often arrest or deport migrants, making travel risky.
How does Enrique’s character change from the beginning to the end of these chapters?
He becomes more cautious, patient, and aware of risks, showing maturity.
What does the story show about human kindness and compassion?
Kindness and compassion appear in small acts, like townspeople helping migrants.
What sacrifices does Enrique make to pursue his goal?
He leaves home, travels long distances without much food or shelter, and faces physical dangers.
How do gangs create obstacles for Enrique?
Gangs threaten him and steal from him, creating constant danger.
How does Enrique interact with other young migrants?
He interacts carefully with other young migrants, sometimes learning from them.
How does Enrique handle fear and uncertainty?
He faces fear by focusing on his goal and making smart choices to avoid danger.
How does the narrative highlight the dangers of migration?
The journey highlights the risks and dangers migrants face in search of a better life.
How does Enrique demonstrate determination throughout the chapters?
He continues the journey even when hungry, exhausted, or afraid.
What environmental challenges (weather, terrain) does he encounter?
Environmental challenges include heat, rain, and unstable train roofs.
What can we learn from the ways people respond to Enrique’s journey?
The way people respond teaches him about kindness, caution, and trust.
What moments reveal his courage and ingenuity?
Moments like riding the train roofs or finding food in towns demonstrate courage and ingenuity.
What lessons can readers learn about perseverance and hope from Enrique’s journey?
Readers learn that perseverance and hope can help overcome extreme challenges.