Character Changes
Esperanza struggles at first because she never had to do what kind of work?
Field work/housework
Where does Esperanza's family live in California?
A labor camp for farm workers
Why are some workers going on strike?
They want better pay and better conditions
Who helps Esperanza learn how to sweep properly?
Miguel
What warnings to workers receive that shows jobs in the camp are not guaranteed?
Strikers are being replaced - workers can lose their jobs if they cause trouble
In "Almonds," what physical task makes Esperanza feel like she is failing?
Sweeping
What crop do they pick in "Uvas"
Grapes
What happens to the workers who strike?
They lose their jobs - they must leave the camp
Who becomes like family to Esperanza in the camp?
Miguel, Alfonso, Hortensia, Isabel
Who gets sick after the dust storm?
Mama
What lesson does Esperanza begin to learn about pride?
It's okay to ask for help - pride can hold you back
Everything gets covered in dust - it becomes hard to breathe - it causes sickness
Why does Mama refuse to join the strike?
She needs a job - she wants stability - she believes working is safer
Why is Esperanza embarrassed when Marta criticizes her?
Marta calls her Cinderella and spoiled
Why is Mama sent to the hospital?
She gets Valley Fever
How does Esperanza begin to change by the time they work with asparagus?
She works hard without complaining - she becomes more responsible - accepting of her new life
How does the camp show a sense of community even though everyone is struggling?
Families help each other, share food and supplies, watch each other's children, support one another during hard times
What internal conflict does Esperanza face about the strikers?
She feels bad for them but if afraid to lose her home/job
She gives her a doll - she supports her dreams
How does the strike create fear for families who choose not to participate?
They worry about losing jobs, safety, or being targeted by strikers
She must support her family - she needs to survive - she grows into independence
How is life in the labor camp different from Mexico?
Smaller homes, shared bathrooms, hard labor, less wealth, less comfort
How does the strike increase tension in the camp?
Families are divided - fear of losing work - anger between workers
What does Esperanza finally understand about the difference between her past life in Mexico and Miguel's dreams in America?
That social class doesn't define a person's worth, that Miguel deserves an opportunity, that their old class system doesn't work the same in America
Why is Mama's illness a turning point for Esperanza?
Esperanza must become the provider and grow up quickly