Under the Mesquite

McCall, G. G. (2011). Under the mesquite. New York: Lee & Low Books.

Sometimes the situations in life make us grow up sooner than we would like. In the case of Lupita, as this heartfelt story tells, her mother’s illness forces her to take responsibilities that no teenager should have to take on. At seventeen, one should be thinking about prom and graduating high school, not raising a family of seven. However unfair and heartbreaking these circumstances were, Lupita took on the challenge for she knew how much her parents needed her to. Adult life is, well even difficult for adults, let alone teenagers. However challenging this new role that Lupita had to take on, she is mature to take it and be good at it. Filled with questions, fears, but most importantly, love for her family, Lupita is able to do as best as she can. However, this role does take a toll on her. 


I am simply in love with the idea that Guadalupe García McCall was born in Piedras Negras, Coahuila and moved to Eagle Pass, Texas when she was six years old. I was born in Piedras Negras and moved to Eagle Pass when I was eight years old. Her life somehow reminded me of my mom's life. When my mom was twelve, my grandmother unexpectedly passed away.. Being the oldest, my mom had to take on the role of a mother for her siblings. Her youngest sister was a year and a half. My mom mature and composed raised her brother and sisters, with no resentment, with no holdbacks, she did what she did because she loved her family. Out of this experience both Lupita and my mom became exceptional human beings that at a young age learned the importance of family. 

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