75 pages • 2 hours read
Sandra CisnerosThe House on Mango Street
Fiction | Novella | YA | Published in 1984A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.
Before You Read
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
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 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.
RecommendedReading Age
12-18yearsLexile Level
870L