Efren Divided chapter 14 by Ernesto Cisneros read aloud

Summary

In this poignant chapter, Efren, a young boy, navigates the bustling streets of Tijuana with his friend Lalo in search of his mother, Amma, who has been deported. The story captures the vibrancy of the community and the harsh realities of life on the border. After a chance encounter at a Taco Loco restaurant, Efren is reunited with his mother, and they share a warm embrace. Lalo, having experienced the perils of border crossing himself, offers to help Amma return to the U.S., despite the high cost and risks involved. The chapter highlights the resilience and determination of the characters as they face the challenges of separation and the pursuit of a better life.

Takeaways

• 👀 Efren observes the hardworking community through Lalo's car window, noting the contrast with American children's leisure activities.
• 📍 Lalo and Efren arrive at a wax museum, where Efren feels a mix of nervousness and excitement.
• 🏃 Efren rushes to Taco Loco restaurant after Lalo points it out, believing his mother might be there.
• 😊 A warm interaction occurs at the restaurant between Efren, his mother Amma, and the lady behind the counter.
• 🤝 Lalo is introduced to Amma, and she expresses gratitude for his help in finding Efren.
• 🍴 The group shares a meal together, discussing Amma's deportation and the challenges of crossing the border.
• 💸 Efren offers Lalo money to help with the costs of crossing the border, but it's not enough for the high fees.
• 🤔 Lalo promises to help Amma cross the border through his connections, despite the risks and costs involved.
• 👪 Amma expresses concern for her family, especially Efren, who has taken on extra responsibilities in her absence.
• 🛣️ Lalo arranges for Amma's border crossing through the hills, setting a time for the next morning.
• 🚴‍♀️ Amma shares her own daring border crossing story, lightening the mood and showing her resilience.

Q & A

What is the setting of the story in Chapter 14?

The story is set in Tijuana, Mexico, with scenes taking place in Lalo's car, a wax museum, and a Taco Loco restaurant.

Why is Efren looking for his mother?

Efren is looking for his mother because she has been deported and is not with him in the United States.

How does Lalo help Efren in the story?

Lalo helps Efren by driving him around to look for his mother and later by arranging for her to cross the border back into the United States.

What is the significance of the wax museum in the story?

The wax museum is where Lalo parks the car when they arrive in Tijuana, and it serves as a landmark that helps Efren orient himself in the new environment.

Why does Efren run to the Taco Loco restaurant?

Efren runs to the Taco Loco restaurant because Lalo points it out as the place where his mother might be, based on a clue from a woman at the restaurant.

What is the relationship between Efren and Lalo?

Efren and Lalo are friends, with Lalo acting as a mentor and guide to Efren in his quest to find his mother.

What challenges does Lalo face regarding his own immigration status?

Lalo has been deported before, spent money on fake papers, and was arrested and sent back. He has a record that makes it difficult for him to get permission to return to the United States legally.

How much money does Efren give to Lalo to help his mother cross the border?

Efren gives Lalo almost thirteen hundred dollars to help his mother with the expenses of crossing the border.

What is the significance of the story about Amma's own border crossing?

Amma's story about crossing the border on the back of a motorcycle while seven months pregnant shows the lengths to which people will go to be with their families and highlights the bravery and determination of immigrants.

What is the plan for Amma to cross the border back into the United States?

The plan is for Amma to cross the border through the hills with the help of Lalo's connections, which is a dangerous and expensive endeavor.

How does the story depict the struggles of immigrant families?

The story shows the struggles of immigrant families through the separation of Efren and his mother due to deportation, the financial burden of attempting to reunite, and the emotional toll on family members left behind.