Summary

Chapter 1 is told from Isaac’s perspective, and he is woken up on his first day of school at Mendez Middle School by his best friend, Marco, who pounds on his bedroom window. Marco, who is “half-Jewish, half-Mexican” is very short for his age. Marco told Isaac the night before that he would help him get to school on time, but Isaac was up late because his parents were fighting (2). The two boys go into breakfast, and Amá gives Marco a hug, and even though Isaac said he is too old for hugs, she pulls him into a hug saying that she can give him them at home. Isaac’s mom works at their family restaurant, El Comedor Castillo, and cooks a delicious breakfast for the boys.

Amá tells Marco to call her Ms. Anguiano, her maiden name instead of Mrs. Castillo...