The House on Mango Street
by Sandra CisnerosPage 1 of 2
Consisting of 44 short stories, The House on Mango Street is a powerful book told by a young girl named Esperanza Cordero. Each chapter tells a gripping story about the girl's childhood on Mango Street. The story takes place in a poor, Latino neighborhood in Chicago. Esperanza dreams of the house she will someday have, her own house, not on Mango Street.
This classic book is celebrating its 25th anniversary in 2009. Visit author Sandra Cisneros's website to see what she has to say about the novel and her life, or visit one of her readings across the country.
Enrichment Activities
Internet Resources
Books by Sandra Cisneros
Enrichment Activities
- Character Chart
Students will analyze the main characters, their relationships with one another, and any distinct characteristics they may have using the Character Chart.
- Conflict Dissection
This graphic organizer will help students to study the story's setting, problem, and solution. Use the Conflict Dissection organizer.
- Discussion Ideas and Questions
To prepare for the discussion element of this story use The House on Mango Street Questions sheet.
- Group Activities and Culminating Projects
Any time students work collaboratively the discussions and results are more vivid and exciting. The House on Mango Street Projects sheet lists great group ideas as well as culminating, cross-curricular projects.
- What Is Your Heritage
Esperanza Cordero was very sure of where she came from. Help your students discover their heritage and then have them look for classmates with the same background. Make a copy of What Is Your Heritage for each student and then let the exploring begin.
- Writing Activity
Helping a child relate a main character to themselves can be crucial when trying to involve your students. The House on Mango Street Writing Activity will allow students to organize their thoughts while comparing themselves to Esperanza.
