Summary
Growing up isn't easy. Sandra Cisneros's novel, a modern coming-of-age classic, confronts the realities of young adulthood head-on. Esperanza, the story's Mexican-American protagonist, has just moved into a new home with her family. It's the family's first house, but its cramped, run-down environment represents everything Esperanza wants to escape. Only then can she become her true, independent self. But who is the real Esperanza? She's a girl and a woman; a Chicana and an American; an individual and a community member. These contradictions are explored in lyrical vignettes—snapshots of life—as Esperanza navigates the emotionally complex transition from childhood to adulthood. To discover more about why Cisneros's book has won fans worldwide, join Rita and Moby on a visit inside <i>The House on Mango Street.</i>
Viewer safety
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Teaching resources
Discussion questions
A few questions to talk through after watching The House on Mango Street:
- What is one new thing you learned about the house on mango street?
- Can you explain it to a partner in your own words?
- Where might you see this in the real world?
- What is one question you still have?
Quick work-a-long
Try it:
- Write one sentence explaining the house on mango street.
- Draw or give one example of your own.