Mexico

The first part of the novel is set in Mexico, which is the setting for key events like the departure of Federico's wife from their marriage; the creation out of paper of "she", and her eventual receipt of the name "Merced de Papel"; and the beginnings of Federico and Little Merced's journey to freedom in America. It is a place of both endings and sadness, a clear and vivid contrast to the qualities associated with America.

America

America is the setting for much of the remainder of the novel. In contrast to the darkness and unhappiness associated with Mexico and the events that take place there, America is associated with hope, possibility, and transformation.

El Monte

This is the community in which Federico and Little Merced settle when they move to America, and where much of the action of the story is set. It is a community populated...