The Tequila Worm

Why do you think the author begins the book with Doña Clara and her bag of storytelling props? What is your impression of Clara and in what ways does her appearance set up the story? Why do you think Clara has no items in her bag when she can no longer speak, and what do the invisible items tells us about the importance of storytelling?

Describe a setting where your family tells stories. What items does your family keep that contain the makings of a memorable story? Using these details, describe the story your family shares when they are together and how the storyteller tells it.

Choose three traditions, for example the sobremesa or the quinceañera, that most interest you. Explain the tradition, referring to the symbolic items used in the celebration, and discuss what appeals to you about each one you choose.

What is Sofia’s main conflict as the story unfolds. Use quotes and example for the text to support your argument. 

Papa tells Sofia that she must learn to communicate with her mother in ways that she can understand. He tells Sofia that her mother “…needs to see and hear things; she can’t sense things in silence, like we can” (69). Explain what you think he means. How does what he say describe both Sofia’s mama, and herself in relation to her papa? Use examples from the text to support your ideas.

What is your interpretation of the canicula? Why do you think the author included this chapter in the book? What do you learn about the characters from the way they deal with the hot summer in the barrio and how do they find comfort from the heat?

Saint Luke’s is, as Sophia says, another world. Describe in detail what Sofia finds so different about the school compared to her life in the barrio and at her old school. What conflicts does it create in Sofia? Are these conflicts resolved by the end of the book? Using textual support, explain why you think Sofia has or has not resolved her struggles about going to Saint Luke’s. 

What personal connections do you make with the story? How does this story mirror or contrast with the average teenager’s life? What do you learn about Sophia’s culture that you may not have known about before? What, in your culture, would you share with Sophia?