Efren Divided chapter 17 by Ernesto Cisneros read aloud

Summary

In this emotional chapter, Efren learns his mother has been detained at a checkpoint and will not be coming home soon. Overwhelmed by the news, he struggles to maintain strength for his children, Max and Mia. Amidst the heartache, they find solace in simple comforts like watching cartoons and eating cake, while Efren makes a promise to never give up on bringing his mother home. The chapter explores the resilience of a family facing separation and the unwavering hope that binds them.

Takeaways

• 😢 Efron is deeply affected by the news about his mother's situation, feeling a heavy weight on his chest and struggling to maintain composure.
• 👀 Max's hopeful eyes and Mia's concern show the children's emotional attachment and worry for their mother's safety.
• 🚔 The mother was in a van that got pulled over at a checkpoint, leading to her being held at a Detention Center.
• 👨‍👧‍👦 Efron's commitment to the children is evident as he promises to do everything he can to reunite their family.
• 😔 The reality of the situation is harsh, with the mother not being able to come home soon, causing emotional distress for everyone involved.
• 🍰 Efron tries to cope with the situation by sharing a carrot cake and watching cartoons with Max and Mia, attempting to bring some normalcy.
• 👶 The children, despite their initial reluctance, eventually find comfort in the simple act of eating cake and watching TV with Efron.
• 🏫 Efron asks Miho to continue taking care of the children's school responsibilities, showing his reliance on support during this difficult time.
• 💼 Efron contemplates finding alternative ways to earn money, like collecting water bottles for recycling, to support the family's needs.
• 🤝 Miho reassures Efron that they will not give up on trying to bring their mother home, despite the uncertainty and challenges.
• 😢 Efron's emotional outburst reflects his struggle with the unfairness of their situation and the longing for a simple life with his mother.

Q & A

What is the emotional state of the character after hanging up the phone?

The character is emotionally overwhelmed, with a sense of a terrible weight on his chest and tears in his eyes, indicating deep distress or sadness.

Why does the character Efron ask if 'she' is okay?

Efron is concerned about the well-being of a female character, who is revealed to be in a detention center after being pulled over at a checkpoint.

What is the significance of Max's 'Penny eyes' in the context of the story?

Max's 'Penny eyes' symbolize his innocence and hopefulness, looking up at Efron for reassurance and good news.

How does Efron's mind react to the situation with 'she' being in a detention center?

Efron's mind races with thoughts and emotions, flashing backward and forward, contemplating the future and the potential pain of separation.

What promise does Efren make to Max and Mia?

Efren promises that both he and their mother will do everything they can to reunite the family, emphasizing the commitment to never give up.

What does the character suggest as a coping mechanism after the difficult news?

The character suggests watching cartoons and eating cake as a way to momentarily escape from the harsh reality and find some comfort.

What is the significance of 'piojitos' in the story?

Piojitos are Max's favorite, and offering them is an attempt by Efren to bring some normalcy and joy to the situation, despite the tension.

How does the character Efren respond to the request to continue taking the twins to school?

Efren agrees to continue taking the twins to school, showing a sense of responsibility and commitment to the children's routine despite the crisis.

What does the character Miho promise regarding the situation with Jeremiah?

Miho promises that they will never give up on trying to reunite with Jeremiah, who is being detained, showing determination and hope.

What is the character's emotional outburst about?

The character is expressing frustration and sadness about the unfairness of their situation, yearning for a simple life with their mother, which seems unattainable.