House on Mango Street takes place during the middle 1950's in a poor section of Chicago. The majority of the neighborhood is Latin and they feel comfortable around their own race. Life is hard at during this time while fathers struggle feeding their families by holding multiple jobs while the mothers stay home and do what they can for their children.

Esperanza: Esperanza is the main character in the book. She is an eleven year old Spanish girl who goes through some tough times. Her dream is to one day leave Mango Street, own her own house and become a writer.

Papa: Papa is a hardworking man who does his best as a gardener to support his family. He is there for Esperanza and wants her so succeed in school so she become more than her father and mother was.

Mama: Mama is a...