The House on Mango Street - Before Reading

The House on Mango Street - Before Reading

Welcome!

Before we dive deep into the analysis for the novel The House on Mango Street next week, let's review some ideas that can help us have some clues as to what to expect in the novel.

Open Ended

What came into your mind when you first heard the title The House on Mango Street?

Hotspot

Where is the story set? Mark the location on the map.

Now knowing the setting:

How do you think the setting of a story—such as a specific neighborhood or city—can influence the characters and their experiences?

Review:

What do you know about the experiences of children growing up in urban neighborhoods? How might these experiences differ from those of children in more rural or affluent areas?

Review:

What might be the significance of a house or home in a person’s life? How could the physical space of a home reflect personal or familial identity?

• How do you think a story told through a series of vignettes or short, descriptive pieces might differ from a traditional narrative with a continuous plot?

• What might be the benefits or challenges of this approach?

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Novel's Structure

Possible main conflict(s)

What kinds of issues or struggles might a young girl face when growing up in a marginalized community?

Possible main conflict(s)

How might these struggles shape her worldview and personal development?

Word Cloud

What possible main themes do you expect to encounter in a story that focuses on the life of a young Latina girl in a city setting? Mention the themes in one (1) to two (2) words.