Under the Mesquite tree: symbolism of the mesquite and Latina characteristics

aspects that speak to latino experiences

-crossing boarders (literally and metaphorically; immigration, difficulty learning new language/foods, from healthy Mami to sick/cancer mami, -coming of age: common theme in Latino realistic YA novels; from daughter to mother (making tortillas); from daughter to independent young woman -conflict between American Lupita and Mexican Lupita: common theme in Latino literature; identifying with one's native heritage and the culture of the US--an issue of identity (common theme in YA lit); trying to lose accent, trying to sound white

aspects that seem universal

-dealing with dying parent, coming of age, conflicts with friends and family, identity: american vs. mexican

Symbolism of the mesquite tree

-represents uprooted, transplanted family -image of a tree as strong, protecting, surviving; tree has become beautiful and strong because pruning, implies pain -the tree as cancer (never goes away, painful) -the tree as Lupita -the tree as rebirth, renewal