Family Dynamics
What was Papi’s “dark side
His violent and abusive behavior.
Why did the Halloween candy need to be checked?
Papi was cautious about poisoned or tampered candy, reflecting his mistrust of American customs.
Why does Reyna enjoy playing the saxophone?
It provides her with a sense of joy and escape from her difficult circumstances. No one else had played it
Why is Papi so angry at Carlos?
Carlos wants to make his own life decisions, which Papi sees as a sign of disrespect.
Describe Reyna’s Quinceañera and her mixed emotions about it.
It’s a special day, but Reyna feels conflicted due to her family’s financial struggles and the absence of harmony.
Why does Mila tell Reyna not to call her “Mama Mila”?
Mila feels uncomfortable taking on the role of a mother to the children, and it highlights her strained relationship with them.
How does Reyna have to change her name in the US?
What connections does Reyna make to the characters in books she reads?
She sees herself in the struggles and dreams of the characters, which inspire her to persevere.
What happened with Carlos, and how did it change Mago’s feelings toward Papi?
Carlos stood up to Papi, but it led to an altercation that caused Mago to see her father in a more negative light.
What impact does reading Sandra Cisneros’s writing have on Reyna?
It inspires her to write about her own experiences and embrace her identity.
How did the Grande children get their father a Christmas gift?
They secretly collected coins and small amounts of money to buy him a wallet.
How were the siblings misled by the Santa Claus commercial on TV?
They thought Santa was real and would bring them gifts, highlighting the struggles of language barriers and cultural adaptation.
How does winning first prize in the writing contest affect Reyna’s confidence?
It boosts her self-esteem and solidifies her dreams of becoming a writer.
What are some ways Reyna is let down by her father?
Papi breaks promises, uses violence, and prioritizes his desires over the well-being of his children.
Why does Reyna describe her friend Meche as looking past her at the huizache trees?
It shows how Reyna’s life has changed and how she feels disconnected from her friend’s struggles.
Why does Papi call Mago “an ungrateful daughter”?
He believes Mago disrespects him and fails to show appreciation for his sacrifices.
Why is Reyna shocked about the train station?
The train station was such a big part of her life in Mexico and what connected her city to the rest of the world
Who introduces Reyna to Chicano literature?
One of her teachers.Diana Savas.
What are Reyna’s insecurities regarding Axel?
She worries she is not good enough for him due to her background and family issues.
How does Reyna’s perception of her father change, and why is he no longer "The Man Behind the Glass"?
Reyna begins to see Papi’s flaws and realizes he is no longer the idealized figure she once imagined.
What is Mila’s condition for calling off her divorce from the Grande children’s father?
What does becoming a "señorita" mean to Mago and Reyna?
Literally, it marks their transition into womanhood -getting their first period; figuratively, it symbolizes growing responsibilities and expectations placed upon them as young women.
To which college does Reyna gain admission
University of California, Santa Cruz.
Why does Reyna accept Papi’s abuse, and what excuses are made for it?
Reyna feels obligated to stay loyal to her father, and the abuse is justified by cultural norms and Papi’s claim of sacrificing for the family.
Where does Reyna eventually enroll in college?
Pasadena City College.