by Pam Munoz Ryan
Published: 2000 Publisher: Scholastic
Paperback: 262 pages ISBN: 043912042X
Genre: Historical fiction
Recommended for children 10+ and grades 5-8.
Plot Summary:
Esperanza is a wealthy girl in Mexico who always thought she would have everything she ever wanted - horses, fancy dresses, servants, a beautiful home, etc. However, an unexpected tragedy forces her and her mama to flee to California during the Great Depression and to settle in a camp for Mexican farm workers. Esperanza is not prepared for the work, the camp, or the lack of acceptance she has to face. But, when their new life is threatened, Esperanza learns that she must search inside for a way to rise above her difficult circumstances.
Evaluation:
This is an easy-read that flows in a "lyrical, fairy-tale like style" (Publisher's Weekly). The story is gripping and relatable. The characters are interesting and it is easy to connect to their struggles and the lessons learned. A historical novel that would connect well with units on immigration, Mexican farm workers, or the Great Depression while also focusing on a non-white female protagonist makes this book a great pick for the classroom.
Content Area:
English
Social Studies
Content Area Standards for Social Studies:
CA Common Core State Standards
CCSS Grades 6-8 Reading Standards for Literacy in Science and Technical Subjects:
Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including vocabulary specific to domains related to history/social studies.
CA Social Science Standards
Grades 6-8 History and Social Sciences Analysis Skills
Students construct various time lines of key events, people, and periods of the historical era they are studying.
Students understand and distinguish cause, effect, sequence, and correlation in historical events, including the long- and short-term causal relations.
Links:
University of Missouri Unit w/Links
Scholastic Lesson Plans
Online Audio Book Available for Purchase
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