Because of Winn-Dixie
Who is the main character?
Opal Buloni
Who is Opal's father?
The preacher (his real name is never used much).
Who is the main character?
Esperanza Ortega
How does Esperanza change throughout the story?
She goes from being spoiled and wealthy to hardworking, strong, and compassionate.
Why does Opal keep Winn-Dixie?
Because she feels lonely and convinces her father to let her keep him.
Where does the story take place?
In Naomi, Florida.
What happened to Opal's mother?
She left Opal and her father when Opal was very young.
Where does the story begin?
In Mexico, on Esperanza's family ranch.
Who is Mama (Ramona)?
Esperanza's mother, who becomes ill and inspires Esperanza to be strong.
What does Gloria Dump teach Opal?
That everyone has mistakes, but they can still be good people.
How did Opal meet Winn-Dixie?
She found him causing trouble in a grocery store called Winn-Dixie.
Who is Gloria Dump?
An older woman who becomes Opal's friend and mentor.
What historical event affects Esperanza's life?
The Great Depression.
Who is Miguel?
A kind, hardworking boy who has known Esperanza since childhood and supports her in
How does Esperanza help her family survive?
She works in the fields, takes care of others, and learns responsibility.
Who does Opal live with?
She lives with her father, the preacher.
Who is Otis?
A shy man who works at a pet store and loves music.
Why does Esperanza move to the United States?
After her father dies and her uncles take over her home, she and her mother flee to escape danger.
Who is Abuelita?
Esperanza's grandmother, who teaches her patience and hope (symbolized by knitting).
What is life like in California for Esperanza?
Very difficult-she must work, live in a small cabin, and adapt to a lower social status.
What is Winn-Dixie?
A stray dog that becomes Opal's best friend.
Who is Amanda Wilkinson?
A girl Opal becomes friends with, even though she is initially rude.
Where do Esperanza and her mother settle in the U.S.?
In California, at a labor camp for farm workers.
Who are To Luis and To Marco?
Esperanza's uncles who pressure her mother to marry Luis and contribute to the family's downfall.
Why is Esperanza's house burned down?
Her uncles arrange it to force Mama to marry Tío Luis.