Rocio Esquibel

The Last of the Menu Girls is the story of Rocio Esquibel, as she grows up in southern New Mexico, living with her mother, Nieves, and her sister, Mercy. Rocio's father has left the family quite some time ago, and she has an older stepsister from her mother's first marriage, whom she rarely sees. Rocio's tale begins as a young adolescent, growing up in a small town, clearly divided into sections based upon socioeconomic status. She has a rather lackluster and stern upbringing and dreams of becoming someone extraordinary, an adult who can accomplish great things and become someone other than those she sees all around her. She observes other girls her age and, at times, attempts to emulate their styles, ultimately realizing that she is destined for a different future. During the summer between high school and college, she works in a local hospital and gains...