88 pages • 2 hours read
Under The Mesquite
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Book Brief
224
Novel • Fiction
Eagle Pass, Texas • 1980s
2011
YA
12-18 years
Super Short Summary
Under The Mesquite by Guadalupe Garcia McCall follows Mexican American teenager Lupita, who balances her aspirations in poetry and acting with the challenges of helping care for her seven siblings and coping with her mother's terminal cancer diagnosis. The story, written in free verse, explores themes of family, heritage, and resilience, paralleling McCall's own experiences. Sensitive topics such as terminal illness and loss are depicted.
Emotional
Melancholic
Bittersweet
Inspirational
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
3,561 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Under The Mesquite by Guadalupe Garcia McCall has been praised for its lyrical prose and emotional depth, exploring themes of family, cultural identity, and resilience. Critics commend its poignant narrative and relatable protagonist. However, some suggest that the verse format may not appeal to all readers. Overall, the novel is a heartfelt and engaging read.
Who Should Read Under The Mesquite?
Readers who would enjoy Under The Mesquite by Guadalupe Garcia McCall are likely fans of poignant coming-of-age stories and poetic prose. Similar to The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros, they often appreciate narratives about cultural identity, family struggles, and personal resilience in a Hispanic American context.
3,561 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Mami
Mami
Lupita's mother, who is the nurturing cornerstone of the family, deeply cares about her children's development and the opportunities they find in America. Her character is symbolized by rosebushes she tends to with care.
224
Novel • Fiction
Eagle Pass, Texas • 1980s
2011
YA
12-18 years
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