Esperanza's World
Where does Esperanza live at the beginning of our story?
Mexico
What is Esperanza preparing to celebrate?
Her birthday
Who is Esperanza's father?
Papa or Sixto Ortega
What changes Esperanza's life?
Papa's death
Find one detail that shows Esperanza had a comfortable life.
Chapter 1
Possible Answer: She lives on a large ranch, has servants/workers, and is used to having things provided for her.
What is Esperanza's life like at the beginning?
She had a happy life. Comfortable, wealthy, and safe.
What happens to Papa?
Who is Esperanza's mother?
Mama or Ramona Ortega
How does Esperanza feel after Papa dies?
Worried, confused, angry, and sad....
Find a detail that shows Esperanza loves Papa.
Chapter 1 or Prolouge
Possible Answer: She enjoys spending time with him and listens carefully when he teaches her about the land.
Who is Esperanza closest to in her family?
Her father, Papa.
What does Mama have to think about after Papa dies?
*One of the bigger challenges*
She has to think about how to protect her family from Tio Luis
How does Papa treat Esperanza?
He lovers her, spends time with her, and teacher her about the land.
What is the new problem that the family has to face?
They are unsure about their future and face a threat from Tio Luis.
Find a detail that confirms Papa's death.
Chapter 1 or 2
Possible Answer: Alfonso crying in the wagon.
What does Papa teach Esperanza about the land?
He teaches her that the earth is alive and has a heartbeat.
What does Tio Luis ask Mama to do?
Sell the house and to marry him
Why does Mama refuse Tio Luis?
She is grieving her husband and does not love him.
How is Esperanza's life at the end of Chapter 2 different from the beginning?
- She lost her father
- She feels unsafe and uncomfortable in her home
- She faces loss and fear
Find a detail that shows Mama is trying to protect her family.
Chapter 2
Mama refuses Tío Luis even though his refusal to accept her decision puts the family in danger.
Why is the land important to Esperanza's family?
It is their home and provides food, work, and wealth.
What happened after Mama refuses Tio Luis?
He becomes angry and threatens her and the family.
How does Tio Luis's behavior affect Esperanza and Mama?
It makes them worry and feel unsafe. He created a larger problem for the family.
Why is Papa's death an important turning point?
It changes Esperanza's life and creates a new problem that moves the story forward.
Find two details that show Esperanza's life is changing.
Chapter 1 (end) and Chapter 2 (billy goat)
Papa dies, Mama faces pressure from Tío Luis, and the family becomes uncertain about their home and future.