Research 1980s U.S. immigration policies for Central American refugees. In what kinds of Sit­uations were refugees granted asylum in the United States? What was the nature of United States-Guatemala relations?

Investigate the political situation in 1980s Guatemala. Who was in power, and what did the government expect of its citizens? Why would Estevan and Esperanza' s teachers' union be con­sidered a threat?

Research weather patterns in Arizona: when and where does the rain fall, and what are the aver­age temperatures throughout the year? Compare actual Tucson weather to its weather in the novel. Compare Tucson weather to Kentucky weather in terms of rainfall and temperatures.

The teenage Cherokee girl in the bar tells Tay­lor that "The Cherokee Nation Isn't anyone place exactly. It's people" Research the Chero­kee Nation in terms of...