Part Two, Section 3 (to page 171) Summary and Analysis

This final section of Part Two walks the reader through Ernie's assimilation into the culture of Mazatlbn, the building of war tension in the city, and the events that lead to their departure from Mazatlbn. Ernie's narrative style continues as it has up to this point; he moves from one description to another in order to build a complete picture of the culture in the family's new hometown. He begins by describing his family's room, how it has a window onto the street and a small kitchen/balcony with a brick stove. The balcony connects to a community courtyard. It is in this courtyard that the young neighborhood children would wash themselves during the rainy season.

The street where Ernie lives, Leandro Valle, is at one of the highest peaks in the city...