The Author
The author used this type of device instead of chapters when she wrote "The House on Mango Street"
Vignette
In "Beautiful & Cruel", Esperanza talks about her sister who has "pretty eyes". What is Esperanza's sister's name?
Nenny
“Until then I am a red balloon, a balloon tied to an anchor” (Cisneros 9).
Metaphor
Like a theme or lesson from the story, a central idea describes the human experience represented in the story.
What city did Sandra Cisneros grow up in?
Chicago
Who is the narrator of the book? Who is telling this story?
Esperanza
Rachel and Lucy
“...windows so small you’d think they were holding their breath” (Cisneros 4)
Personification
What should a central idea NOT include?
It does not contain any character names or specific plot details. It should be a general human experience that can be applied to multiple stories.
Where are Cisneros' parents / ancestors from?
Mexico
(Father is from Mexico, Mother is Mexican-American)
According to the intro video, why did Sandra Cisneros write this book?
She didn't see other stories with her family, her house, her neighborhood. She wanted to publish a book that connected with her life.
Explain 2 things we learn about the character Alicia from "Alicia Who Sees Mice"
- Alicia has to wake up early to make lunches
- Her mother died
- She studies for university, doesn't want to work in a factory or with a rolling pin (at home)
- She is afraid of mice and fathers
"Dead cars appeared over night like mushrooms" (Cisneros, 95)
Simile
Esperanza writes that "One day I'll own my own house, but I won't forget who I am or where I came from. Passing bums will ask, Can I come in? I'll offer them the attic, ask them to stay, because I know how it is to be without a house" (87). What is a central idea for this vignette?
- Give back to those in need
-If you find success, don't forget where you came from
-It's nice to take care of others
What nationality is Sandra Cisneros?
American
(Sandra is second generation Mexican- American)
Describe TWO ways this book is styled different than other books.
There isn't one continuous plot. Instead of chapters, there are vignettes.
Heavy reliance on figurative language
Unique sentence structure, doesn't follow the standard grammar rules. "Poetic" style
Who met Geraldo No Last Name at a dance? AND what happened to him?
Marin met Geraldo at a dance. But, he got killed in a hit-and-run. Hew went to the hospital, but the surgeon didn't come quickly and Geraldo had no identification; Geraldo died.
“The one with the marbled hands called me aside. Esperanza. She held my face with her blue-veined hands” (Cisneros 105).
Imagery
What is the central idea of "A Smart Cookie" where Esperanza's mom points a wooden spoon at her? (Page 90-91)
- Sometimes adults regret decisions they have made in the past.
-Adults may wish their children to make different/better decisions
This book is semi-autobiographical for Cisneros. What does that mean?
The book is based on her memories and experiences , but Sandra Cisneros made up the character of Esperanza and fictionalized some of the details.
In "The First Job" Esperanza talks about her work at a photo shop. She is scared to eat alone, but then she eats lunch with a man. What happens at the end of the story that scares her?
The man kisses Esperanza on the mouth and won't let go.
"The garden began to take over itself. Flowers stopped obeying the little bricks that kept them from growing beyond their paths" (Cisneros, 95)
Personification
Create a possible central idea for the vignette: "Mango Street Says Goodbye Sometimes"
-Not everyone gets their dream come true
- Remember where you came from, remember your past
-Help your community