Estrella's Journey: Key Themes and Characters
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Estrella's Journey: Key Themes and Characters

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@TalentedFantasy1640

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Questions and Answers

What building does Austria notice as the family approaches its new home?

A barn

Who is Perfecto?

Estrella's stepfather (Petra's boyfriend)

What are Alejo and Gumencindo doing in the orchard?

Stealing fruit

What does Perfecto find in the family's new home?

<p>A scorpion and a dead bird</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who is La Llorona?

<p>A Mexican myth</p> Signup and view all the answers

What fruit does Estrella associate her father with?

<p>An orange</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does her father do before leaving?

<p>Lace his shoes</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does she do to distract her brothers from their hunger?

<p>Dance</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the boy with the cleft palate hurt himself?

<p>He falls on a piece of glass</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does Alejo cheer up the boy in the barn?

<p>He makes shadow puppets with his hand</p> Signup and view all the answers

What reminds Estrella of struggling to read?

<p>Perfecto's mysterious tools</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who does Estrella befriend on the tomato farm?

<p>Maxine</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Estrella read to Maxine?

<p>Comics</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why do Estrella and Maxine fight?

<p>Maxine says her mother and Perfecto are having sex</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who does Alejo see in the river?

<p>Estrella (naked)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is Estrella doing in the river?

<p>Washing a watermelon</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Alejo bring Estrella's family?

<p>Peaches</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who does Alejo live with?

<p>His cousin (Gumencindo)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Petra give Alejo in return for the peaches?

<p>Beans and tortillas</p> Signup and view all the answers

What does Estrella pick in the fields at the beginning of part two?

<p>Grapes</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who does Estrella compare herself with?

<p>The girl on the raisin boxes</p> Signup and view all the answers

At what age did Estrella begin working in the fields?

<p>Age 4</p> Signup and view all the answers

Who sees the boy with the harelip from the barn in the grape fields?

<p>Alejo</p> Signup and view all the answers

What reminds the workers of their homes and other destinations?

<p>A passing train</p> Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Key Characters and Relationships

  • Perfecto is Estrella's stepfather and Petra's boyfriend.
  • Estrella befriends Maxine on the tomato farm, highlighting themes of friendship despite conflicts.
  • Alejo, who lives with his cousin Gumecindo, shares a bond with Estrella.

Significant Events and Actions

  • Estrella associates her father with an orange, symbolizing personal memories.
  • To distract her hungry brothers, Estrella dances, showcasing her ingenuity and care for her family.
  • Alejo cheers up a boy with a cleft palate by making shadow puppets, illustrating his kindness.

Themes and Symbols

  • La Llorona represents a significant Mexican myth tied to cultural beliefs and fears.
  • Estrella's struggles with reading are symbolized by Perfecto's mysterious tools, indicating her challenges in adapting to her environment.
  • Grapes picked by Estrella at the beginning of part two symbolize her labor and connection to the land.

Imagery and Illustrations

  • A barn is the notable building observed by Austria as the family approaches their new home, setting the rural scene.
  • A scorpion and a dead bird found in their new home highlight neglect and the harsh realities of their living conditions.
  • A passing train serves as a reminder of home and other destinations for the workers, connecting their labor to broader journeys.

Conflicts and Resolutions

  • Estrella and Maxine's fight arises from Maxine's remark about her mother and Perfecto, reflecting tension and misunderstandings.
  • Alejo's act of bringing peaches to Estrella's family illustrates the exchange of kindness and support among the characters.

Important Facts

  • Estrella began working in the fields at the age of four, emphasizing the harsh realities of child labor.
  • The boy with the harelip is recognized by Alejo in the grape fields, showcasing interconnected lives in their community.
  • During a moment of vulnerability, Estrella is seen washing a watermelon in the river, providing a glimpse into her daily life.

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Description

Explore the intricate relationships and significant events in Estrella's life, focusing on her bond with characters like Perfecto and Alejo. This quiz delves into the themes of friendship, cultural myths, and the symbolism throughout the narrative. Identify the symbols and actions that reflect Estrella's struggles and her connection to the land.

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