Esperanza is a rich girl from Aguas Calientes in Mexico. She lived with her mom, dad and grandmother who she called abuelita on the grape vineyard her father owned. One day her father was killed by bandits. Once her father was dead, her uncle asked to marry Esperanza's mom which she refused. That night her house burned down and they had to move to California, where they worked for very little money and in disgusting conditions. Espranza had to work for the first time in her life.

While working in the field one day, Esperanza's mother fell ill with valley fever. She stayed in the hospital for months. While her mom was in the hospital, Esperanza had to work twice as hard to pay for food and her mothers hospital bills. Every bit of money left over was saved to bring Abuelita to California.

Esperanza's mom was released from the hospital but was still sick. Once Esperanza saved up enough money, Miguel, a worker that came to California with her took the money and brought Abuelita.