Esperanza was born into a privileged life, as the only child of a wealthy Mexican family. She has never had to work a day in her life and has always had the finest clothing, toys, and parties. She is eagerly awaiting the end of the grape harvest which will mark her thirteenth birthday. However, when her father is killed by bandits, her world is turned upside down. During the 1930s it was traditional that women did not own land and so Papa’s will only leaves Mama and Esperanza a place to live and an income from the grapes. His brothers are now own the land and powerful Tío Luis wants more. He requests Mama’s hand in marriage and when she declines, all they have goes up in flames, injuring Abuelita. Again Tío Luis proposes marriage and swears that their beloved servants will die if Mama refuses.What Tío Luis does not expect is for Mama and Esperanza to steal away in the dark of night and board a train for California. Esperanza soon finds herself living a life completely different from any she has known. Mama must work in the fields and Esperanza has to pull her weight cooking, washing, sweeping, and providing child care in the migrant field camp where they live. When Mama develops Valley Fever, Esperanza finds herself the sole provider to support her family. Can Esperanza rise to face the challenge?
