Characters & Growth
She begins as a spoiled wealthy girl in Mexico and grows into a resilient farmworker.
Esperanza
This object, given by Papa, represents Esperanza’s past wealth and childhood innocence.
a porcelain doll
The tragic event that forces Mama and Esperanza to flee El Rancho de las Rosas
the fire that destroys El Rancho de las Rosas (or Papa's death/burning of the house)
"Do not be afraid to start over."
Abuelita
The major economic disaster in the 1930s happening during the story.
The Great Depression
This young girl looks up to Esperanza and longs to be chosen as Queen of the May.
Isabel
This physical object crocheted by Abuelita represents the high and low points of life.
crocheted yarn blanket
The illness Mama contracts after the massive dust storm.
Valley Fever
"He who falls today may rise tomorrow.
Josefina (or Abuelita / Mexican proverb)
The state where Esperanza and her family move to work in the agricultural fields.
California
He is demoted from mechanic work on the railroad to digging ditches because of white workers.
Miguel
This bird, mentioned by Miguel, symbolizes Esperanza’s ability to rise from the ashes of her old life.
The Phoenix
The surprise object Esperanza gives to Isabel when she isn't named Queen of the May.
the porcelain doll
"Is this California? More like a prison!"
Marta
The term for when workers refuse to work to demand better pay and conditions.
strike
She organizes farmworkers and leads the strike, clashing with Esperanza about working.
Marta
This vegetable title of Chapter 12 is fragile and mirrors the precarious situation of the workers.
Asparagus (Los Espárragos)
What Miguel actually does with the missing money orders saved in the trunk.
Brings Abuelita to California
"An deep river runs between us, Esperanza."
Miguel
The practice of federal authorities deporting Mexican workers, including American citizens.
raids/deportation
The cruel uncles who try to force Mama into marriage to take control of the land.
Tío Luis and Tío Marco
The item found destroyed at the abandoned striker camp symbolizing shattered hopes for children.
The piñata
The month and agricultural harvest season when the novel begins and ends.
Grape season / Las Uvas (or August)
"Wait a little while and the fruit will fall into your hand."
Papa
The term used for white migrant workers fleeing environmental disaster from the Midwest.
Okies