Throw Back Thursday

I find this TBT post to be one of the harder ones to write. As a child, I never really read the historical fiction genre so I can't reanalyze a text I once read. The historical fiction genre is also very unique and also unlike any of the genres we have already discussed. I will say however, it is a genre with many merits. It is a fantastic way to make serious or important events in history more accessible to children. It also give the reader a glimpse into a a time and place they wouldn't be able to experience otherwise. The Magic Treehouse series was the closest thing to the books we read in class. While they were more fictional than "Esperanza Rising" and "Little House on the Prairie", they did teach children about historical events.

Commonplace Quoten - Esperanza Rising

"Esperanza smiled and reached over and gently pulled the yarn, unraveling the uneven stitches. Then she looked into Isabel's trusting eyes and said, 'Do not ever be afraid to start over'" (253).

This quote was significant because it brought Esperanza's journey full circle. She has gone from the role of child and student to mentor and teacher. She is no longer lost, she has found a strength and beauty within herself that she is now ready to pass that down.

Commonplace Quote - Little House on the Praire

"Laura swallowed hard, to keep from crying. She knew it was shameful to cry, but there was crying inside her." (24).

This quote is one of the many that describe the restraints put on Laura and her sister. Throughout the book there are examples of this internal conflict Laura has. It was not acceptable to show sadness or cry. It doesn't really go into specific on why this was unacceptable, but I am assuming it was mostly to do with being able to detach emotionally in order to ensure survival.

Notable Moment - Esperanza Rising

The moment that stuck out to me in "Esperanza Rising" occurred quickly after Esperanza and her mother arrived in California. Their journey from Mexico was one that was both physically and emotionally draining. Throughout the trip, Esperanza was resisting her new identity. She could not understand or accept her new role in society. So once she got to the farm many people made fun of her and her lack of knowledge about every day tasks. So after a small pep talk, Esperanza decided to ignore those who doubt her and focus on learning her work. The notable moment of her picking up the broom and asking for help to learn reflects Esperanza's humble yet determined spirit.

Wordless Wednesday - Esperanza Rising

http://picturethis.museumca.org/pictures/imperial-valley-%E2%80%93-people-camps

Migrant Workers in the 1930s. This is what some of the living conditions were like for the workers and their families.