Esperanza Rising is a tale of overcoming difficulties and, above all, of the power of a family’s love. Ryan’s book is based on the true life experiences of her grandmother, and seamlessly works the cultural and historical realities of 1930s life into the plot.
Esperanza Rising Character Evolution - Esperanza Rising by Pam Munoz Ryan
Storyboard Text
BEGINNING
END
When Esperanza is traveling on the train to Los Angeles, she selfishly refuses to allow a little girl to touch her doll. She thinks the little girl is too poor and dirty.
After she grows to know and love Isabel, Esperanza selflessly gives away her precious birthday doll from Papa.
On El Rancho de las Rosas, Esperanza dislikes crocheting and complains that it is boring.
After Mama falls ill, Esperanza spends her rare free time crocheting Abuelita's blanket as a sign of love for Mama. Esperanza has learned patience.
At the beginning of the book, Esperanza tells Miguel that she and he stand on different sides of the river, referring to her high social position and his low one. When Miguel tries to hold her hand in a friendly way, Esperanza pulls away.
By the end of the book, Esperanza appreciates Miguel as her equal. She reaches out to hold his hand while they listen to the earth's heartbeat.