Under the Feet of Jesus by Helena Maria Viramontes is acclaimed for its poignant depiction of migrant farmworkers' struggles and the resilience of its characters. Critics laud its lyrical prose and powerful themes. However, some find the pacing slow in parts. Overall, it's a compelling and evocative novel that sheds light on marginalized communities.

Readers drawn to compelling narratives of struggle and resilience amidst social injustice would appreciate Under the Feet of Jesus by Helena Maria Viramontes. Fans of The Grapes of Wrath by John Steinbeck and The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros will resonate with its vivid depiction of migrant farmworkers’ lives and Viramontes' lyrical prose.

Under the Feet of Jesus by Helena Maria Viramontes follows Estrella, a 13-year-old girl, and her Mexican-American migrant worker family as they navigate the struggles of their precarious existence in California. Estrella begins working in the fields, forms a bond with Alejo, a boy who dreams of becoming a geologist, and faces challenges when Alejo falls severely ill, prompting Estrella to take drastic action to help him. Sensitive topics include illness and abandonment.

Contemplative / Melancholic / Challenging / Emotional / Dark

- The novel is considered a pivotal work in Chicano literature, highlighting the experiences and struggles of migrant farm workers in California.
- Helena Maria Viramontes drew inspiration from her own family’s history of working in the fields, infusing the novel with authentic details from her childhood.
- Under the Feet of Jesus is frequently used in academic settings to explore themes of identity, resilience, and the impact of socio-economic challenges on marginalized communities.

**Estrella**  
A 13-year-old Chicana who works as a migrant, seasonal worker on Californian farms with her family. As the eldest daughter of Petra, she balances the challenges of earning money for the family and caring for her younger siblings.

**Petra**  
A 35-year-old migrant worker and mother of Estrella and her siblings, who faces physical and emotional hardships, including being abandoned by her husband. She is devoted to her family and relies heavily on her faith for strength.

**Perfecto Flores**  
An elderly migrant worker and handyman in his seventies, who is several decades older than his partner Petra. He acts as a father figure to Petra's children and bears a secret past that troubles him.

**Alejo**  
A nearly 16-year-old migrant worker who comes to California with his cousin Gumecindo, aspiring to use his education as a means to escape his current circumstances. He forms a meaningful connection with Estrella.

**Gumecindo**  
A 15-year-old cousin of Alejo who shares in the migrant worker experience. He is less mature than Alejo and depends on him for guidance and protection.

**Ricky and Arnulfo**  
Estrella's younger brothers, who are relatively innocent and inexperienced. Ricky is a 10-year-old boy with dreams of becoming a pilot.

**Perla and Cookie**  
Estrella's youngest sisters who are twins. They are too young to work and look up to Estrella for care and guidance.

**Maxine Devridge**  
A white girl who resides in the same labor camp as Estrella briefly and forms an initial friendship with her. Her family's mean and racist tendencies influence their interactions with Estrella.

**The Nurse**  
An unnamed clinic nurse who treats Alejo, representing societal challenges faced by migrant workers. Her actions reflect a lack of understanding and empathy toward the family’s situation.

**Estrella’s Father**  
A character who left the family before the events of the novel, remembered by Estrella for his capability and by Petra for his forcefulness. His memory influences the characters’ perspectives and decisions.

**Mercedes**  
Perfecto's former lover, representing his past and the home he yearns to return to. Her presence impacts Perfecto’s dreams and thoughts as he deals with his current life.

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