Ch. 1
What two names does the narrator go by? Why is this significant?
Pedro and Peter. This is significant because it reveals his identity as Mexican-American. He feels that both names belong to him.
Why was the motorhome so affordable?
The previous owner had died under mysterious circumstances and it was believed that he might of died in the motorhome.
Where was it dad never wanted to stop because it was a waste of money?
Apa never wanted to stop by roadside attractions.
How many children are in his large family? What is difficult with a family this size?
There are 11 people in Pedro's family. Pedro describes chaotic dinners and family events including the trip they take to Mexico.
Where were the older and younger siblings born? What is significant about this for Pedro's family?
The beginning of Chapter 4 uses a simile. What is the simile?
"Motorhomes are like giant apartment-sized pinball machines" (Martin 48).
Why is Peter worried about his Abuelito coming to live with him?
Pedro is worried that his Abuelito will not like him.
Why were the kids allowed to pick one thing that they really wanted and not just needed?
Every member of the family had a different definition of what "essential" meant.
Where did the family like to stop when they were traveling? Why is this important for the Martin family?
The family stops in Los Angeles to visit with relatives. This is important for the Martin family because it is an opportunity for them to visit with relatives they don't get to see too often.
Peter says that everyone in the family has at least one super power, what is his sister Lila’s?
Lila has "the look"—a way of looking at people when they are doing something inappropriate.
Summarize what Abuelito did during the Revolutionary War.
Abuelito delivered essential goods to people across Jalisco during the war. While he was not a soldier his job was very dangerous because he encountered fighting and thieves along the way.
What did the friends and family give them to take on the trip with them?
In Los Angeles, their relatives give them clothes, toys to give away in Mexico.
What does Pedro need to do with his toys and why?
Pedro needs to organize his toys and make room for his Abuelito to live with the family.
The family goes to KMart to get the essentials for the trip. What does Peter suggest they buy for Abuelito?
Pedro suggests they get him a knife, lasso or belt with bullets to let him relive his time in the Revolution.
Why do you think they are tense as they get close to the border?
They get tense when the get closer to the border because they are taking a lot of things and they are afraid it will get confiscated.