Part One, Section 5 (to page 41) Summary and Analysis

Building on the last section, Ernie introduces the start of his transition from a boy to a young man. There are no schools in the village, so his education comes from learning and watching the behavior of those around him. At one time, the villagers had petitioned the government in Tepic to provide a teacher, but many years had passed without result. The adults of Jalcocotbn value basic arithmetic and language skills, however. Those who have some education pass on these skills to their children.

Ernie's mother has one printed book. Though it is a cookbook, Dona Henriqueta reads the book to Ernie and he learns to pick out certain words. He seems to understand the value of basic education and is curious about language. He remarks that he is somewhat fascinated by...