Podcast
Questions and Answers
Who is the protagonist of 'Heat'?
Who is the protagonist of 'Heat'?
Michael Arroyo
Who helps Michael whenever she can?
Who helps Michael whenever she can?
Mrs. Cora
Who is Michael's older brother?
Who is Michael's older brother?
Carlos
What happened to Michael and Carlos' father?
What happened to Michael and Carlos' father?
Who is Michael's idol?
Who is Michael's idol?
What position does Manny Cabrera play?
What position does Manny Cabrera play?
What is the name of the only girl on Michael's All-Star baseball team?
What is the name of the only girl on Michael's All-Star baseball team?
What speed does Michael hope to achieve on the radar gun?
What speed does Michael hope to achieve on the radar gun?
What is the name of Michael's hometown?
What is the name of Michael's hometown?
Where does Michael live now?
Where does Michael live now?
What does Michael need to continue to play baseball?
What does Michael need to continue to play baseball?
What was the only pitch Michael was going to throw once this year?
What was the only pitch Michael was going to throw once this year?
What is the significance of the nickname 'El Grande'?
What is the significance of the nickname 'El Grande'?
Michael was nice to Ellie when he and Manny first saw her.
Michael was nice to Ellie when he and Manny first saw her.
What does Michael tell Manny to say to the cops?
What does Michael tell Manny to say to the cops?
Who built a mound for Michael in the alley behind 825 Gerard?
Who built a mound for Michael in the alley behind 825 Gerard?
Who is Michael's All-Star team coach?
Who is Michael's All-Star team coach?
What does Uncle Timo do?
What does Uncle Timo do?
What do Michael and Manny like grabbing food from?
What do Michael and Manny like grabbing food from?
What does Michael have on file that has allowed him to play up until this point?
What does Michael have on file that has allowed him to play up until this point?
Who is the officer that arrested Ramon?
Who is the officer that arrested Ramon?
What is the name of the baseball team Michael plays for?
What is the name of the baseball team Michael plays for?
What are the chances Mr. Amorosa comes to a little league playoff game?
What are the chances Mr. Amorosa comes to a little league playoff game?
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Study Notes
Main Characters
- Michael Arroyo: 12-year-old protagonist and talented baseball player.
- Mrs. Cora: Supportive figure who assists Michael and Carlos.
- Carlos: Michael's older brother, juggles two jobs to support their family.
- Papi: Their deceased father, a former taxi driver who died from a heart attack.
- Manny Cabrera: Michael's best friend, plays catcher for their team.
- Ellie Garcia: Michael's new friend with impressive baseball skills; daughter of El Grande.
- Maria Cuellar: Only girl on Michael's All-Star team.
Setting and Background
- Hometown: Michael was born in Havana, Cuba.
- Current Residence: Lives in Bronx, New York.
- Important Events:
- Little League World Series held in Williamsport, Pennsylvania.
- Con Ed bill represents financial struggles faced by Carlos.
Key Plot Elements
- Baseball Aspirations: Michael dreams of reaching 80 mph on the radar gun and has to present his birth certificate to continue playing.
- Challenges: The Administration for Child Services (ACS) threatens to separate Michael and Carlos.
- Conflict: Michael strikes out a rival player, Justin, causing a tantrum that illustrates competitive rivalry in youth sports.
Notable Themes
- Family Dynamics: Carlos takes on parental responsibilities, while Michael navigates childhood pressures.
- Identity: Ellie hides her true identity as El Grande’s daughter to make friends for who she is beyond her father's fame.
- Struggles and Sacrifices: Carlos takes an illegal job out of desperation, highlighting themes of survival and responsibility.
Supporting Characters
- Mr. Minaya: Coach of Michael’s All-Star team, encourages Michael’s support role.
- Officer Mark Crandall: Police officer who appreciates Michael’s bravery.
- Mr. Lima: Press secretary who seeks coverage of Michael with important figures.
- Uncle Timo: Manny's godfather who stands in for Papi during a crucial moment.
Significant Events
- Character Development: Michael learns about responsibility and the importance of family as he faces childhood challenges.
- Confrontation with Authority: Michael’s nervousness around Mr. Gibbs emphasizes the pressures faced in the absence of parental figures.
- Baseball Games: Michael coaches third base in crucial playoff games, showcasing his dedication despite obstacles.
Key Facts and Figures
- El Grande's Record: Currently 7-0, highlighting his status as a top player Michael idolizes.
- Michael’s Only Pitch: He plans to throw a curve ball, emphasizing his focus on pitching strategy.
- Financial Burdens: Carlos deals with overdue bills, reflecting their financial struggles.
Miscellaneous
- Cultural References: Uncle Timo references Caddyshack, adding a touch of humor and relatability.
- Themes of Friendship: Manny’s supportive betrayal regarding Ellie shows the importance of friendship and acceptance.
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