Point of View

The novel is told from the third-person point of view, from the limited perspective of one character. The perspective changes many times throughout the novel. At different times, the narration reflects the thoughts of Candidó, América, Delaney, and Kyra.

Setting

Arroyo Blanco Estates is a new upscale housing development in southern California. All the houses look the same, with white walls and red tile roofs. The lawns in Arroyo Blanco Estates are meticulously landscaped. Shiny expensive cars can be seen driving along the neighborhood's uncrowded roads.

Below Arroyo Blanco Estates is a busy road. Alongside the road are several groceries, a post office, and a temporary shelter that serves as the labor exchange for day workers. The road curves because it is built into the side of a mountain.

Below the busy road, a path wends through colorful untamed vegetation in a state park. Topanga...