Wildwood

At an early age, Lola longs to escape her life. She does this by reading books, watching TV, and poring over anything that provides a window into the world. How does this habit represent her immaturity? What do the specific pieces of media that she mentions in the text indicate about what she’s trying to escape from?

Find examples of sensory writing or figurative language in “Wildwood.” How does Diaz advance the narrative using language that appeals to all the senses? Would the story have the same impact without these sensory details? Explain.

Belicia, Lola’s mother, is an antagonist who is more central any other character. She’s a foil to Lola’s character, and the reader’s empathy for her ebbs as Lola’s story unfolds. How are the two different, and how are they similar? How does Diaz develop sympathy for Belicia despite her abuse of Lola?