Who is Dionisio or Tigre from The Corn Grows Ripe and what is their importance?

Dionisio or Tigre is a 12-year-old, Mayan boy. He lives in a small Mayan village. His father is a farmer. His family works hard, but Dionisio is lazy. He likes to lie around in his hammock. Mother and Father spoil him because his three brothers died in one week. Dionisio's nickname is Tigre (Jaguar) because he looks like a jaguar and he is curious and mischievous. Everyone calls him Tigre. Tigre loves to ask questions and understand the science of nature. His family cannot help his quest for knowledge because they are not educated. Tigre enjoys his education. It quenches his thirst for knowledge.