Esperanza Rising

Ryan, Pam Munoz. (2000) New York: Scholastic Inc. 978-0-439-12042-5

PLOT SUMMARY

Thirteen year old Esperanza grew up rich and privileged in Mexico, but when her father dies, she and her mother must move to the United States to escape her evil uncles. They learn to live a different life on a farm where they pick fruit and vegetables in order to survive.

CRITICAL EVALUATION

Well written with an interesting main character who shows growth and maturity as the story progresses. There are many touching moments that center around the idea of family and the strength of their bonds. Without her family, Esperanza has nothing, and she risks losing everyone in it. She evolves with the world around her, learning how to cope during their difficulties, drawing strength from memories and the knowledge bestowed upon her by her family. A beautiful story that reminds the reader that there is so much more in the world than things. There is much to learn from other people who are different from us, and it's the relationships and bonds with these people, and the way we treat others that help define our character. A story that would appeal more to girls.

READER'S ANNOTATION

On the day of Esperanza's thirteenth birthday she is accosted with terrible news--her father has been killed by bandits on their ranch in Mexico. She is forced to flee with her mother to the United States, accompanied by a family of servants who have known her ever since she was born. It is the depression and Esperanza has never known the hardships that accompany the lives of the unprivileged. They live on a camp on a farm where they pick vegetables and she must learn how to be a productive member of the group instead of the princess that she once was.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Pam Munoz Ryan grew up in the San Joaquin Valley in California. She is the author of more than 25 books and has won numerous awards during the course of her writing career.

GENRE

Realistic fiction

CURRICULUM TIES

Have students learn and discuss the ways that life changed for people during the depression.

BOOKTALKING IDEAS

What has Esperanza learned during the course of the story? Discuss the significance of the land/earth and her ties to it.

READING LEVEL/INTEREST AGE

12-18

CHALLENGE ISSUES

none

WHY INCLUDE THIS BOOK?

Esperanza is such a privileged child that she doesn't know/understand nor is she sensitive to the world and the inhabitants around her. This story illustrates growth in a way that makes the reader think twice about the difficulties that other people may experience.