I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter

Use these essay questions as writing and critical thinking exercises for all levels of writers, and to build their literary analysis skills by requiring textual references throughout the essay. 

Scaffolded/Short-Answer Essay Questions

Student Prompt: Write a short (1-3 paragraph) response using one of the below bulleted outlines. Cite details from the play over the course of your response that serve as examples and support.

1. Although she believes they are different, Julia learns from Mamá Jacinto that her and Amá are very similar. Compare and contrast the differences between Julia and Amá.

• Does Julia believe that she is more similar to or different from Amá? (topic sentence)
• Substantiate your argument with three examples of either similarities or differences.
• Do you agree with Julia? Why or why not?

2. At the beginning and end of Julia’s trip to Los Ojos in Chapters 19-22, there are references about a donkey.

• What is the first reference made about a donkey by her tío? (topic sentence)
• What is the second reference made about a donkey as she is leaving Los Ojos?
• Consider this symbolism. What do you think Sánchez is alluding to with the presence of this symbol?

3. Throughout the novel, the author uses Hyperboles to express the protagonist’s inner monologue (first person narration).

• In what ways could an author express emotions through Hyperbolic writing? (topic sentence)
• Find three examples in the text where Julia expresses her emotions with hyperboles.
• What insights does the audience learn from this first-person narration and Hyperbolic Language?

Full Essay Assignments

Student Prompt: Write a structured and well-developed essay. Include a thesis statement, at least three main points supported by text details, and a conclusion.

1. The idea of perfection is a common thread that links together the main women of the novel. For example, although Amá believes Olga is perfect, Julia uncovers information that challenges this narrative. Select one of the main characters in the novel (e.g., Julia, Olga, or Amá) and consider the following questions: What is the relationship between perfection and this character in the novel? Does this character strive for perfection? In what ways? Do they achieve perfection? Why or why not?

2. Julia frequently references the Grief, as well as Guilt, that Amá possesses throughout the novel. Consider these two emotions in terms of how Amá’s character is developed. In what ways does she express her Grief? How does she express her guilt? What are the effects of these expressions on Julia’s relationship with her mother?