Esperanza Rising: Guavas Part 1

Read the Summary of "Figs" and answer the question.

In "Esperanza Rising," the chapter titled "Los Higos" (Figs) marks a turning point for Esperanza and her family. The chapter focuses on the family's desperate escape from their burning home after learning of Papa's death and the threat of Tío Luis, who demands Esperanza's mother's marriage to secure the family's remaining possessions. The chapter uses the image of figs, a symbol of her birthday celebration, but now to Esperanza they symbolize the very different life she will experience due to the loss the family is experiencing.

Where is the family fleeing to?

• Mexico

• United States

• Guam

• Canada

• Why are the women expected to stay out of sight while traveling?

• They not required to hide while traveling on the road because they are not in immediate danger and do not fear being recognized.

• Their journey is open and public, so they are just resting in the back of the wagon.

• They are avoiding being recognized by Tio Luis and his allies.

What childhood memory did Hortensia remind Esperanza of to calm her down?

• A birthday party

• A train ride

• Playing in the orchard

• Hiding from thieves

How did Miguel distract the thieves when they were hiding?

• By calling for help

• By releasing a mouse

• By throwing a rock

• By making a noise

In 4 sentences answer the question below:

How is this train ride different from her train ride with Papa and Miguel?

For example: The train ride Esperanza took with Papa and Miguel was ____. The train ride she is taking now is ____ because ____. The biggest difference is ____. Overall, I think ____.

When Esperanza is describing the peasants on the train, what does that tell you about her personality?

• Esperanza notices the peasants’ worn clothing, their food, and their behavior with a sense of discomfort and judgment. This shows that she still sees herself as different from—and above—the working class.

• It shows that Esperanza has always been poor and feels comfortable around the peasants. She is excited to meet new friends.

• It shows that Esperanza is already used to traveling with peasants and enjoys their company.