Esperanza's Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan

 

  1. Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan

 

  1. Bibliography


Ryan, Pam Munoz. 2002. New York, NY; Scholastic. ISBN 9780439120425

  1. Plot Summary

This is the story of Esperanza, the daughter of a wealthy farmer in Mexico. She is raised with servants and beautiful dolls and dresses, and anything her heart desires. All that changes in the blink of a moment when a fire takes everything from Esperanza, including her beloved father. Now Esperanza and her mother must escape to America where they will find jobs working in the fields of California. Life becomes very difficult for Esperanza, but with the help of her mother and some new friends and acquaintances, she learns to grow from her hardships. 


  1. Critical Analysis (Including cultural markers)


The fact that this story begins in Mexico is a great reminder to the reader of all the cultural inclusiveness that comes with the Hispanic Culture. Spanish is continuously being thrown in the story to bring about a more realistic experience. The physical description of the characters and their names also play into that authentic role of the Mexican culture. Esperanza has dark black hair, dark eyes, and very pale skin. This detail also helps set Esperanza apart from her friend who is a servant, and spends most of his time out in the fields. Miguel also has dark eyes and hair, but his skin is much darker than Esperanza’s, due to being outside, working in the fields. As the story progresses, and Esperanza is forced to work in the field in California, her skin also becomes darker. This symbolism represents Esperanza connecting with her roots and growing as one with nature. 

One detail that continues to pop up time and time again is the presence of nature, especially flowers, and more specifically roses. While still in Mexico, Esperanza’s father has a beautiful rose garden that, unfortunately, gets burned in the fire. Luckily, Miguel is able to salvage a clipping from a rose bush and surprise Esperanza with the rose in California. Again, this is symbolic of bringing the Mexican heritage to a new place. 


  1. Review Excerpts

Publishers Weekly: “Told in a lyrical, fairy tale-like style...Readers will be swept up.”


School Library Journal: “ Easy to booktalk, useful in classroom discussions, and accessible as pleasure reading, this well-written novel belongs in all collections.”


  1. Connections

Look for these other books for young people:


Williams-Garcia, Rita. ONE CRAZY SUMMER. ISBN 0060760907.


Woodson, Jacqueline. BROWN GIRL DREAMING. ISBN 9780147515827.


Jamieson, Victoria. WHEN STARS ARE SCATTERED. ISBN 0525553908.

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