Under The Mesquite

Analyze Lupita’s character development. What major moments inform her development, and how does that development influence McCall’s theme?

Lupita must navigate between different languages and cultures. Write about a time when you had to code switch in order to fit in. How did you feel? Can we navigate between different identities, or must we choose only one? Explain your reasoning.

Use the glossary at the back of the book to define the Spanish terms used in the book. Which words are reserved for their Spanish translations? Why do you think the author used these Spanish words throughout the narrative?

Under the Mesquite has a unique structure. In what ways do McCall’s chapters echo forms of poetry? Why does McCall structure her novel in this way?

Analyze the importance of Lupita’s fifteenth birthday. What does it mean for Lupita, and what does it signify for her family? What does Lupita’s reaction to turning fifteen show the reader about her characterization?

Analyze the significance of gardening in Under the Mesquite. What does gardening symbolize, and how does it help to communicate McCall’s theme?

A great sacrifice Lupita makes is to convince her parents to seek treatment far away while she cares for her siblings. If you were in Lupita’s position, would you have done the same thing? Why or why not?

How does Mexico remain important to Lupita and her family after they move to Texas? Write an analysis of Mexico’s meaning to the novel as a whole.