Summary

Julia’s tío Chucho picks her up from the airport and drives her the four hours through the mountains to their hometown of Los Ojos. There, Julia’s maternal grandmother, Mamá Jacinta, covers her with kisses and marvels at her beauty. Julia enjoys the outpouring of positive attention as the extended family greets her. Mamá Jacinta scolds Julia for being “too skinny,” a novel experience (245). Julia admits that unconditional affection could be a healing experience: “Maybe Amá was right for once. Maybe this is what I needed” (246).

As they cook together, Mamá Jacinta encourages Julia to talk about her troubles. Mamá Jacinta remarks that Julia and Amá are very alike, both rebellious as young women. She hints that Amá has gone through more heartache than Julia knows. Curious about Amá’s youth, Julia explores the photographs and keepsakes...