75 pages 2 hours read

Sandra Cisneros

The House on Mango Street

Fiction | Novella | YA | Published in 1984

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros, first published in 1984, is an internationally acclaimed novel that tells the story of Esperanza Cordero through vignettes, chronicling her growth from a child to a young woman in the Hispanic quarter of Chicago. Esperanza navigates poverty, cramped living conditions, and the complexities of sexual awareness while using writing as an outlet for her feelings and dreams of a better future. The story includes experiences with domestic violence and sexual assault.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Sandra Cisneros' The House on Mango Street is lauded for its lyrical prose and poignant depiction of Latinx experiences, resonating with readers through its vivid storytelling and emotional depth. Critics praise its insightful exploration of identity and community. However, some find its episodic structure fragmented. Overall, it's a compelling read with substantial cultural impact.

Who should read this

Who Should Read The House on Mango Street?

A reader who would enjoy The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros often appreciates coming-of-age stories, diverse cultural perspectives, and lyrical prose. Comparable to readers of To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee and The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison, they seek poignant explorations of identity, community, and resilience.

Recommended

Reading Age

12-18years

Lexile Level

870L

Book Details

Genre

Coming of Age / Bildungsroman

American Literature

Topics

Gender / Feminism

Immigration / Refugee

Themes

Identity: Femininity