Characters
Who is Zezé’s imaginary friend that lives in the orange tree?
Minguinho/Pinkie/Sweetie
What prank caused Zezé to get severely beaten?
He tied a string across the road, causing a man to crash his bike
Which character says something that makes Zezé feel truly loved?
Portuga / Gloria
What does the orange tree symbolize in Zezé’s life?
Comfort, friendship, and escape from reality
How does Zezé use imagination to cope with pain?
He imagines the orange tree as a friend who listens and comforts him
Which character becomes a father figure to Zezé?
Manuel Valadares (Portuga)
Why does the family have to move houses?
Because of financial problems and unpaid rent
What does Portuga say that makes Zezé feel truly loved?
"You are not bad, my boy. You just have too much love and don’t know where to put it."
What theme is shown through Zezé’s beatings and home life?
Child abuse and lack of affection
Why does Zezé talk to the orange tree?
It makes him feel less lonely and helps him escape harsh reality
What is the name of Zezé’s baby brother?
King Luis
What happens to the orange tree at the end?
It is cut down by the city authorities
Open your books and find a line that shows Zezé’s imagination.
“He (the tree) talks to me, and I tell him secrets.”
What do Portuga’s car rides symbolize for Zezé?
Freedom, happiness, and love
What is the difference between how Zezé views the world and adults do?
He sees magic and meaning where adults see routine or rules
Which older sibling is kind and nurturing to Zezé?
Glória
What tragic event leads Zezé to emotional collapse?
Being beaten by his older sister and father / Portuga dies in a train accident / Cutting down his tree
What does Zezé say to the tree when he’s sad?
“You’re my only friend.”
How does Zezé’s relationship with Portuga show emotional healing?
Portuga gives Zezé the love and attention he misses at home
What role does fantasy play in Zezé’s survival?
It protects him emotionally from abuse and sadness
Who is Ariovaldo and what does he do for a living?
He’s a street vendor who sells song pamphlets and sings
Why was Zezé hospitalized after Portuga’s death?
He became very ill from the emotional trauma
What quote best reflects the theme of loss in the story?
“I no longer had Portuga, and the tree was gone too.”
What overall theme does the story suggest about childhood?
The loss of innocence and the need for emotional support
How does the ending show the clash between reality and childhood dreams?
Both Portuga and the tree are lost—his dreams are replaced by grief