3/24/13

Dear Reader,

 

In the last few chapters of Mexican Whiteboy, I felt pleased with the outcome of the book.  Through Uno and Danny’s friendship and Danny and Liberty’s relationship, everything seemed to turn out wonderfully for everyone.  What was your opinion with regard to this novel?

 

Uno’s and Danny’s friendship has really grown throughout the story.  Uno realizes that he and Danny have played and practiced baseball together but only so Danny can succeed as a pitcher.  “Uno studies him for a few seconds. He wonders if the kid’s tired of this setup. Throwing pitches to a regular old catcher. He’s known all along that this is a temporary thing, that Danny would eventually move on to bigger and better things. But he didn’t realize it’d be this hard for him to say goodbye. Makes him feel kind of soft” (208). Uno knows that he doesn’t have a baseball career waiting for him but he helps Danny with his dream on the Levcadia team.  Their friendship has really grown through baseball.  Have you ever met someone that you didn’t like at first but then became friends with them through a sport?

 

Danny came to National City to learn more about his dad and his dad’s side of the family.  His dream is to eventually move in with his dad.  However, before the end of his trip, he finds out some devastating news about his father.  His father is in prison.  The whole time Danny thought a scout was watching him for a team, he was actually watching him play baseball for his father.  “He shakes his head, stares down at the black-and-white checkered tiles, sighs. ‘He asked me if I could watch over you. While he’s away.’ Danny looks back at the scout, a frown coming over his face. The scout pulls off his Padres cap, smoothes his thick black hair peppered with gray and pulls the cap back on. ‘Your dad asked me if I could. I said yes, of course’” (218).  How would you feel if your dream ended in disappointment?

 

In the last Hustle of the summer, Uno and Danny face Kyle Sorenso, the best hitter on Leucadia’s team.  Even though Danny failed to strike out Kyle, he still threw many pitches and held his own ground against him.  At the end of the Hustle, Kyle came up to Danny with great news from the coach.  “Danny turns around when he feels somebody shoving the Leucadia guys off him. He expects to find Uno, but it’s Kyle. ‘Go on,’ he says. ‘Coach’ll call you.’ Danny looks at him without saying anything. Kyle turns and releases Uno. He looks at Danny again, says: ‘You got great stuff, man. I’m serious. coach’ll call you.’ He waves them off, and Danny and Uno grab their things and hustle from the field as some of the Leucadia guys shout after them” (239).  Have you ever received great news before?  If so, how did you feel?

 

I predicted that Danny and Liberty would love each other before Danny had to return home.  “Uno lets Danny out first, steps out himself and goes to pull the door shut behind him. But just before the door latches, he hears Liberty shout: ‘espera!’ He opens the door back up and Liberty hurries past him. She grabs Danny’s face in her hands and kisses him on the lips real quick. When they separate she stands there giggling. Then Danny takes her face in his hands and kisses her” (243). Danny and Liberty have both realized how they feel about each other and finally get to tell each other.

 

I really enjoyed this book and hope you did too. What did you think of this book? I wish it didn’t end because I wanted to see if Uno and Danny would still stay long distance friends and what became of Danny and Liberty’s relationship.

 

Sincerely,

Sara Houle

3/24/13                                                            Mexican White Boy pages 225-247

Dear Reader,                                                                        

      I am heartbroken that this book has come to an end. To be honest, I didn't expect Mexican White Boy was going to be a great book when I first received it. When I looked at the cover and saw an illustration of a pitcher surrounded by graffiti, I predicted that this book was going to be all about a baseball player. How boring! I've read ten books with that same plot. Luckily, this book was so much more than just baseball. It taught me the significance of family, relationships and culture. This book helped me better understand who I was as a person. I guess you can say that I made a huge mistake when I judged this book by its cover. How has this book influenced you?

      I don't know about you, but I find Pena's use of figurative language quite ingenious. His excellent use of similes help enhance the novel and engage me into reading further. During the hustle against Kyle Sorenson, Danny "delivers a fastball that burrows through the strike zone like a groundhog...a curve that sizzles like flat soda, a knuckle that dances across stage like a pantomime" (Pena 234-235). In this example, Pena's amazing use of similes helps clearly explain the effects of Danny's different types of pitches. Comparing the "dancing" of Danny's knuckleball to a pantomime's dancing helps me understand how wildly this pitch moved across the strike zone. The comparison of Danny's fastball burrowing into the strike zone to the burrowing of a groundhog helps explain how fast this pitch entered Uno's glove. I believe that I can write more effectively after absorbing Pena's use of figurative language. What literary element did you enjoy the most in this book?

      Danny's relationship with Uno is reminiscent of the relationship I possess with my best friend Isaac. Like Danny and Uno, my relationship with Isaac started off with a major conflict. Two years ago, I was playing a one-on-one basketball game against him at the park. Frustrated by losing in the game, Isaac viciously elbowed me in the nose. As I saw the streams of blood jetting out of my nose, I tackled him and punched him in the face. Other kids in the park had to break up the fight between Isaac and I. A month after the fight, I saw Isaac playing basketball in the park again. I decided to forget about the past and join him in a basketball game. In the months to follow, we teamed up to hustle other kids in the park by challenging them to two-on-two basketball games. Just like Danny and Uno, our hustles brought us closer together as friends. Isaac is now my best friend and he is always there for me when I need someone to talk to. Have you ever hustled another person?

      I was proud of Danny when he finally found the courage to speak up for himself. When Uno declares that Danny is ready to challenge Kyle Sorenson, a future MLB star, a player on Leucadia Prep asks Danny, "You don't really wanna challenge Kyle, do you?" (Pena 230). Instead of shying away from the question, Danny replies, "Yeah, I do" (Pena 230). This depicts how Danny is no longer hesitant to let others know what he believes. A few months prior to this summer, Danny wouldn't even imagine standing up for himself. Back then, he was more comfortable with keeping his comments to himself and avoiding any type of confrontation. Additionally, this instance proves how Danny has gained confidence in his pitching since visiting National City. By learning how to clear his mind from Uno, Danny has learned how to consistently pitch at an exceptional level. I believe that this this has allowed him to be fearless of any baseball player that he hustles. Do you agree with me?

      When Uno asked Danny if he wanted to visit his father in prison, Danny replied, "I wanna go" (Pena 246). This surprised me because I thought Danny wanted nothing to do with his father when he found out his father was in jail. Prior to discovering this fact at the Padres' game, Danny was planning to find his father in Ensenada, Mexico. In my opinion, I believed Danny would be reluctant to reunite with his father because it would bring him a massive amount of pain to see his father locked up in jail. Additionally, I don't understand why Danny wants to visit his father after he decided to abandon Danny's family. How would you feel if your father abandoned your family? Would you want to reunite with him?

      Throughout the novel, I believe that Pena has done an excellent job in proving how culture shapes your identity as a person. Dancing and creating memories are a big part of the Mexican-American culture. Pena incorporates this into the novel when Sofia "leads Liberty onto the living room rug, where they dance to a string of Jay-Z songs...Uno finds an old-school Polaroid camera in a cupboard by the plates and starts taking everybody's picture" (Pena 242). The Mexican-American culture possessed by Uno, Danny, Liberty and Sofia affect how they interact with one another in life. Another aspect of life that culture impacts is the type of food you eat. After the failed hustle with Kyle Sorenson, Uno and Danny are "sitting at Uncle Tommy's kitchen table with Sofia and Liberty, finishing up a pan of chicken enchiladas with refried beans and rice" (Pena 240-241). These characters are eating this type of food because it is a popular Mexican dish.

      Overall, I thought this was an amazing book that I would recommend to all of my friends. I'm going to miss writing to you about all of the exciting events in this book.

                                                                                                         Sincerely,
                                                                                                                         Ankit

2/25/13 anne silveira

3/25/13                                                                 Mexican White Boy Pages 225-247

Dear Mr. Matt de la Peña,                                                     

            After completing your novel, Mexican White Boy, I want to say this book is amazing. I love how you incorporate various sides of the characters, from rough and tough city folk to sweet family members and friends. The way that you show character growth throughout the novel enhances the plot. I also enjoy how you carry over events, fears, memories, and opinions, because everything ties in at the end, which in my opinion creates an interesting book. Everything that you incorporate causes me realize that you do have an opinion about Mexican-Americans and their lifestyles. You want to show that even though the perception of Mexican-Americans is often negative, they can be extraordinary people who care deeply for their family and friends. The way in which you write the novel appears to pay tribute to this nationality, while also showing that they have flaws, just like people of any nationality do, which is the perfect balance. Is my interpretation accurate or did you have other purposes?

            My favorite event in the novel occurs in the “Last Hustle of the Summer”. You have Danny face his fear of competing against Kyle Sorenson, the MLB prospect. This perfectly ties in what Danny is training for, what he wants to accomplish, what he can do, and how he matures. One of simplest sentences in the entire novel really catches my eye. When a Leucadia Prep player asks Danny if he really wants to challenge Kyle, Danny says, “’Yeah…I do’” (Peña 230). The fact that Danny speaks up for himself shows that he comes out of his shell and believes in his abilities. Before his summer in National City, Danny can’t dream of speaking up, let alone having the will to pitch against Kyle Sorenson. This proves that although it doesn’t always seem like living in National City is a positive experience, it teaches Danny how to stand up for himself. I appreciate how you touch on this subject in a simple, yet meaningful way.

            While Danny is pitching to Kyle, you add in some extraordinary suspense and imagery. I yearn to find out what happens after each pitch, which keeps me reading. As you describe Danny, as he pitches, I can visualize, and at some points even feel, the pitch. When you write, “Danny tunes everything else out… It’s not about him anymore. It’s about something bigger. His talent. The power of a train rumbling over a bridge. He concentrates on Uno’s sign. Nods. Breathes in deep. He goes into his windup, delivers his best fastball of the summer right down the pipe. Right through the jugular. A knife piercing a Thanksgiving day turkey at his grandma’s house. And his perfectly delivered baseball screams towards Uno’s waiting mitt, Danny sees it all as a slow-motion blur of red and white.  Big blob of a hitter at home plate. Shadow of a catcher and nobody in the stands. As the pitch rips through the warm air Danny is alive. Awake. Capable. He feels. He’s let go a pitch that’s a sure third strike against anybody else. But this isn’t anybody else. It’s Kyle Sorenson” (Peña 234). This incorporates a great deal of imagery, personification, figurative language, and suspense, which improves the novel significantly. It speaks to me, and helps me realize that this moment is fantastic for Danny. The fact that I can see everything he sees in such detail, in the split second it takes the ball to reach the plate, is amazing. While I read this, I am intrigued with what you say. Your comparisons make everything completely realistic, and when you add in the suspense, it takes the phrase over the top. The suspense about if Kyle hits the ball or not snaps you out of the zone you are in, makes you realize what is really happening, and causes you to read on and find out more. Is this your intention, or are you trying to make the pitch dramatic because it could possibly strike the best hitter in the area out? Either way I love it!

             I know that most people have a hard time picturing an event in slow motion, when in real time it occurs quickly, but I believe one can. Sometimes, when I am playing a sport that is moving quickly, I just stop and think. All of a sudden everything seems to slow down.  For example, when I go to a soccer ball, I feel like I have all the time in the world to make my move, as if I’m in slow motion. How is this possible, may you ask? I honestly don’t know, but with the focus that Danny has, I can honestly say that seeing every inch of the ball in slow motion is definitely possible for him.

            As Danny pitches to Kyle, he is not alone, which I think is important. Uno is there for Danny the entire time. He says, “’You foolin’ ‘im on every one of them pitches. He barley hangin’ with you…You realize what that says about you already, D? He the best, right? If you think about it, man, you already won. This last strike just be gravy”’ (Peña 235). As Uno says this, he isn’t just trying to encourage Danny to make him perform well; he is being a true friend because he believes in Danny. In the beginning of the novel, Uno is a jerk to Danny, but seeing them together now proves that anything is possible, when it comes to forming unexpected friendships. Also, as Uno gives Danny a pep talk, he is showing that he is becoming more mature. At first, Uno is a low life on the street that doesn’t care what he does, but now that he has friends who he truly cares about and a father who is attempting to be in his life, he is turning his life around. Clearly, having a close friend who you can spend time with is essential. It allows both Danny and Uno to become better people, which is fantastic. Seeing the bond they establish makes me realize that everyone needs a friend, who they can count on, because it can change one’s life in the simplest way.  The manner, in which you develop the characters through friendships blossoming over time, is exceptional because it enhances the book, while teaching the reader a life lesson.

            As they finish the hustle at Leucadia Prep, Danny is defeated, but amidst the struggle Uno makes it double or nothing because he truly believes in Danny. When they officially lose the hustle, I love the reactions that you create for Danny and Uno. Kyle hits a home run, but Danny realizes it’s, “not just a home run. Not just a lost bet or a failed hustle. An answer” (Peña 238). I believe it symbolizes that no one can beat Kyle Sorenson, but Danny is the first one who comes really close, so he now has “an answer” to the question “Am I really a good pitcher?” Is this what you mean?

             Even though Danny seems to be calm after the defeat, he feels like “something died inside of him” (Peña 239). Soon a fight breaks out with Uno, which seems to frequently happen after a bet, both in the book and the real world. Instinctively, Danny goes over to protect Uno, which shows the strength he now encompasses. He punches a player twice, and at this point he wins, so, “he feels something brand-new taking its place” (Peña 239). Even though fighting isn’t the way to handle a situation, I am glad that you incorporate it, because it makes the situation dramatic. After the fight, Kyle tells Danny that the coach will be calling. This boosts Danny’s confidence and makes him realize that he is truly a great pitcher. Having the opportunity to play for Leucadia Prep is what Danny desires, so it pleases me to see that you write that his dream is coming true.

             When Danny and Uno finally return home, they spend some time with Sofia and Liberty. It is Danny’s last night in National City with his relatives, which is depressing, but the events you incorporate make it exciting, as well. Throughout his experience Danny realizes that he is who he is and nothing can change that, which I believe is a lesson that everyone needs to learn. Even though it takes a while for Danny to discover himself, I’m delighted that he does.

            Sofia reveals that, “’I talked to Aunt Wendy, Danny’s mom, and she lettin’ me stay with them for the semester…Aunt Wendy says we gonna talk about junior schools’” (Peña 242). Sofia is earning an education for herself, which everyone should do. The fact that Sofia decides to have a higher level of education, even though no one else in her family has, is extraordinary. Although she isn’t a major character in the novel, I notice that you make it so she changes over time as well, which is notable.

            Finally, Danny and Liberty, who have been avoiding each other throughout the novel, actually talk and determine that they will visit each other. Once again, Danny shows his development in the aspect of his life involving Liberty. He couldn’t bring himself to speak to Liberty before, but now he steps out of his shell and has the courage to do so.

             The way you write conclusion of the novel is straightforward, yet emotional. As Danny and Uno go to the train tracks for the last time, they talk about life and their plans for the future. As they play their fortune game, “Danny hit five on seeing Liberty again, Danny hit five on checking out Oxnard someday. Uno only hit two on Manny moving out of the halfway house. Danny hit five on Sofia going to college. Uno hit four on getting along with his old man” (Peña 244), meaning that these wishes should come true based on the outcome of this game.

            The boys later decide to stay for the night and watch the sun rise, as Senior recommends. This decision ties in their experiences with Senior, at the tracks, and their struggles with each new day. While they sit and talk, you resolve the entire conflict of the novel. Uno tells Danny, “’This is on me and you takin’ a little trip tomorrow morning, before your moms comes down to get you…[to] Metropolitan Correctional Center in San Diego. See your old man’” (Peña 245). The fact that Uno does this for him shows how much he cares for Danny and what a close friendship they establish. Danny finally has the opportunity to see his father, which is all that he desires. Even though he is nervous, he is happy at the same time, just as anyone would be, so you capture Danny’s emotions perfectly. Do you know anyone who finally sees a parent after many years of being apart? Is this what you base Danny’s emotions off of? Or have you experienced it yourself?      

            Your conclusion completes the time Uno and Danny spend together perfectly. You write, “Sitting on the train tracks. With his best friend. Watching a sunrise” (Peña 247). In my opinion, this symbolizes the new individuals they have become and the new beginning they are about to experience. They both have bright futures ahead of them and I hope that they have the chance to fulfill their dreams. Matt, you didn’t disappoint, so I would just like to say one last time, this book is an outstanding form of realistic fiction.

Sincerely,

Anne Silveira

P.S. Have you written any other novel? If so, I would like to read them.

                                                                                                                       

3/25/13 post

3/25/13 pages 225-the end

Dear Reader,

            What an amazing ending to the novel Mexican White Boy by Matt de la Pena.  So much has happened on the last twenty pages. This book kept me readying and never wanting to put it down.  The author put the biggest conflict on the last twenty pages.  When of the best parts is all of the characters have a happy ending.  Throughout the story the characters overcome the struggles that they faced in the being of the book.  You really get to see the characters throughout the story.

            Danny has finally achieved his goal; facing against Kyle Sorenson, the big league protegee.  Danny has to fight his way, but isn't victorious.  Even though he doesn't win, Danny does get to play against Kyle.  Something he has dreamed of since he watched practices behind the fence.  In the novel it is written, "Because this is so much fun.  Pitching to Kyle.... 'You realize what that says about you, D?  He the best, right? If you think about it, man, you already won....'" (Pena 234-35).  Danny also gets into a fight with a boy.  Uno is getting spit on by Barker and Danny goes and "punches Barker in the face" (Pena 239).  Before Danny would never do this and it shows that he is developing, and will always protect his friends.

          Danny has really matured over the book.  He started off as a shy quiet guy that wouldn't talk much.  He now has confidence to achieve anything in the game of baseball and be able to pitch against any other player.  He finally talks and has made friends.  At the Leucadia Prep Danny confirms the challenge and a boy says, "He speaks!" (Pena 230).  This demonstrates how Danny has matured because he never would have talked before.  What is your opinion of Danny?

         Uno has really matured over the book.  Uno started off as a high tempered and was cocky, selfish.  He believed he was the best in the neighborhood and got jealous when there was a threat.  through the book Uno became determined to turn his life around.  He looked for a job to make money.  He became a kinder person and a great friend to Danny he really tried to get to live with his father.  It was joyful when I learned that he will get to live with his father.  In  the novel  Uno says, "'That's alright boy. I got a roof that needs new tile.... You ready for some hard work, boy?'" (Pena 242).  Uno has really turned his act around and I admire that.  What do you  think of Uno?

           Sofe, Danny's cousin, has changed throughout the novel.  She was the typical party girl at the beginning of the novel.  She thought that she wouldn't get anywhere in life.  Especially when none of her family has attended college.  She always care about her family and will always protect them.  This is seen through her defending Danny.  Toward the end Sofe got more confidence in herself.  She is now applying herself to her goal and education.  In the end Sofe says, "I talked to Aunt Wendy, Danny's mom, and she lettin' me stay with them for a semester.  They got this transfer program she read about.... Aunt Wendy says we gonna talk about junior colleges" (Pena 242).

        Liberty has transformed also throughout the novel.  She was shy and couldn't understand any English at the beginning of the book. Throughout the story she accepts her feelings for Danny and tries to tell him.  She fears going to a new school, especially when she isn't fluent in English.  She is in love with Danny and they finally get together in the end!  In the novel it is written, "She grabs Danny's face in her hands and kisses him on the lips real quick.  When they separate she stands there giggling.  Then Danny takes her face in his hands and kisses her" (Pena 243).  What do you think of Danny and Liberty?

       The vocabulary in the book wasn't very hard.  I didn't need to use a dictionary only a translator.  Overall I understood the book easily.

         Well congrats for finishing the book, and I hope you liked it as much as I did!

Sincerely,
Lauren Abbott:)
         
       

Dear Reader,

 

In the Mexican White Boy pages 156-207 a lot has happened.  Uno’s and Danny’s friendship has grown stronger and Danny and Liberty have grown closer than ever before, the only thing that stands in their way is culture.

 

I feel that Danny’s and Uno’s friendship has grown through baseball.  They both have a goal.  They stick up for each other and watch each other’s backs.  For example, “Uno stays staring at Danny.  ‘It’s just … I can’t let you get hurt, D.  I canot’” (174).  This quote shows that Uno didn’t want Danny to get hurt.  Uno wanted Danny t o run back to the bus after the last pitch, but Danny didn’t run.  Danny stayed to help Uno fight.  I think Danny did the right thing by staying to help Uno.  What would you have done?

 

Danny has also grown closer to Liberty.  On a date, they had to go outside together.  They tried to talk the only problem was their culture.  Danny can only speak English and Liberty can only speak Spanish.  They try to communicate but it doesn’t work.  Liberty says, “‘Me recuerdas de un chico mayor de donde soy yo. He tendio ganas de decirtelo desde el principio del verano, Pero a veces me da tanta verguenza hablar en ingles que prefiero no decir nada’”(188).  This means “You remind me of an older guy where I’m from.  I want to tell you since the beginning of the summer.  But sometimes I get so embarrassed to speak English I’d rather not say anything.”  Danny replied,  “‘I’m so happy right now. Being here with you, In National City. I came here because sometimes I feel like a fake American. And I don’t want to be fake. I wanna be real, I love my dad’s family. And I love the culture and the language and everything my gramma cooks and the way they live. I’ve always wished I was more like them. But it’s been twice as bad since my dad left.…I wish I could tell you how pretty you I think you are in Spanish. But I can’t. Because I never learned”’ (188).  It’s a shame that they can’t talk to each other.  What would you do if you didn’t speak the same language as your crush?

 

I got really confused at one point.  When Danny was in the car with his uncle and then hit that man.  I didn’t really understand why they did that.  They also kept mentioning Danny’s father and I couldn’t understand why because he wasn’t with them.  Di d you understand this part of the story?

 

Overall, I think Mexican White Boy is a really good book.  I like how you can see friendships forming over time.  How do you like the book?

 

Sincerely

 Sara Houle

3/18/13 anne silveira

Dear Reader,                                                           Mexican White Boy Pages 156-224

            In reading almost the entire novel, Mexican White Boy, by Matt de la Peña, I see an overabundance of information pertaining to the characters through major events that occur. Danny and Uno’s families have secrets from the past, which they uncover, while they encounter troubles along the way. The boys are able to ascertain more about what their family members are really like, which is for the better and worse. I know for a fact that going through times like this isn’t easy, but when they persevere, they will find the truth and learn to accept it.

            As I analyze Uno’s lifestyle, I realize that he has a challenging life. His biological father is troublesome at times, and he has a stepfather who constantly yells at him. On top of all this, he learns that his mother is pregnant. His mother says, “’Ernesto wants a son with his own blood here. It’s nothing against you or Manny’” (198). Personally, I think that this is one of the worst things a mother can say to her child, because they will take it the opposite way, as Uno does. This creates tension and causes Uno to feel unwanted, even when his mother tries to say otherwise. With all of this chaos, Uno has a hard time keeping his head on straight and can’t seem to relate to his family. He wants to love his family, but he can’t even talk to them or tell them about his plans in life without becoming angry or confused, which is problematic. How would you react in a situation where you feel isolated and unwanted in your own family?

            When it comes to Uno’s real father, everything changes. Senior has strong views about the world that can be both confusing and inspiring. Senior’s views allow Uno to discover some of Senior’s strange ways. Senior explains that a thief was trying to break into his house, but he caught him. Instead of beating him up or calling the police, Senior brought the boy inside and spoke to him. He said, “I served time, lost my marriage, lost my son. Lost my damn sense of who I was” (159). He told the boy about how he turned his life around, and how the boy could, too. Senior forgave the boy and gave him money for his girlfriend and his baby. The way that Senior handles this situation shocks Uno. This story makes Uno realize that his father is a changed man who wants to do the right thing.

                                                            

            The way in which Uno’s family communicates with one another is part of the Mexican culture. They talk a lot, and want what they say to be heard, like a true Mexican. This trait seems to have been passed down, proving that learning one’s culture starts at home, which shapes the identities of those in future generations

           Danny hasn’t been acquainted with his family members for most of his life. This leads to some gaps in the knowledge that he has pertaining to them. At first, Danny doesn’t know anything about where his father is or why he left. But in this portion of the novel, all of that changes. Danny stumbles upon numerous secrets that his family has been keeping from him, and he observes what some of his uncles are really capable of.

            It all starts with a phone call from his mother. She tells Danny, “’Your dad’s the only person I’ve ever been in love with. It’s just, well, things happened that made it impossible for us to stay together…He’s a good man…That’s all you need to know, I think’” (193). Do you know why Danny’s mother wouldn’t tell him why his father isn’t around anymore? Personally, I believe that everyone has the right to know what happens within their family. When Danny isn’t informed, I feel like he is being cheated. No matter what his mother says to convince Danny that she has reasons for not telling him about his father, I will always believe that he deserves to be told, and nothing will change that.

             As he and his mother continue to talk, Danny isn’t able to obtain any information from his mother about his father. Yet, what he discovers is priceless. Mom really does love both Danny and his father and she wants to make everything right. Danny must be happy that his mom is making an effort because even if they aren’t together as a family the fact that they love one other makes them one, which is all that Danny hopes for. Family is important to me, and just having love from others can make life easier. How do you feel? What makes a true family? Do you have to be together or do you just have to love one another?

            Although Danny doesn’t have much information about his father, he keeps digging. He asks Sofia if she knows what happened between his parents. She says, “’I think he hit her, cuz. I’m sorry to tell you, but I think you got a right to know. He hit her and she came to stay with us after. And then when that thing happened at the beach he got in trouble’” (195). This completely shocks Danny, yet he tries to shrug it off. Why do you think he attempts not to show any emotion? I know that if I was told the reason why my parents split up was due to abuse, I would feel awful. No one should suffer domestic abuse or its consequences, which this novel addresses.

            Even though Danny knows why his father left, he still doesn’t know where he is. For a couple of days, Danny ponders where he could possibly be, and if he should buy a ticket to Mexico to attempt to locate him. For some reason, Danny can’t convince himself to purchase the ticket, but eventually he realizes that it is good that he didn’t.

                                  

            One day, Danny and Uno attend a Padres game. While they are at the game, Danny sees the “scout” that has been watching him at all of their hustles. The only problem is, he isn’t in the press box; he is a hot dog vendor. If I were Danny, I would have been surprised. I believe he was in shock, but instead of just sitting there, as I would have, he decides to be proactive. Danny gets out of his seat and follows the man. When he catches up to him, they speak with one another. Danny is informed that this man isn’t really a scout. The man tells him, “’He asked me if I could watch over you. While he’s away…Your dad asked me if I could. I said of course’”(218). When Danny hears the man mention his father, he is caught off guard. For the past four years, Danny has had no idea what happened to his father,  then all of a sudden he finds himself next to a man who has spoken to his father and may know where he is. If I were Danny, I would have been asking a million questions, yet he keeps his composure, which is amazing. How would you have reacted in a situation like this?

            As they continue to talk, Danny discovers that his father saved this man's life in a fight. The man also says, “’He always brags on you, you know. Goes on and on about what a great kid you are. A great player, too, he tells everybody’” (219). Danny comes to realize that his father truly cares for and admires him, which is exciting. The fact this man has been watching over him for his father is important. Even if a parent can’t be there, they should make sure that their child is protected, which is exactly what Danny’s father does. This also incorporates Mexican culture. Mexicans often protect their own, will keep their promises, and have a reason for everything, making them who they are.

            When Danny is about to go back to his seat, he is able to discover one last thing  about his father. He learns where his dad is: in prison. Danny is crushed. I can’t imagine how terrible he must feel when he finds out, after all these years, that his father is in prison. How would you react if one of your parents was in prison, especially if a stranger had to tell you? Would you feel betrayed or protected?

            Unfortunately, the only way that Danny can cope with this shocking news is by cutting himself with tweezers when he arrives at Sofia’s house. The only person that is there for him in this time of struggle is Sofia. She just keeps saying, “’You didn’t do nothin’ wrong…You don’t got nothin’ to do with him bein’ in trouble’” (224). I am glad that Sofia cares about Danny this much, because without her he would probably fall apart. Everyone needs someone who will always be there for them. Do you have someone in your life that you can always turn to? If so, how have they helped you in times of trouble?

                Not only does Danny come across the lies of the last four years, but he learns about the dark side of his Uncle Ray. His Uncle had taken him to the market and while they were in a parking lot he performed a hit and run. This is an unacceptable action that should never occur, so I still wonder why Ray did it, especially with Danny in the car. This scares Danny because he sees that his uncle can be a dangerous man, as opposed to someone he should look up to. This reminds me of the novel Hit and Run by Lurlene McDaniel. It is about how if one is involved in a hit and run, they cannot take back their actions, but what they do to cope with it makes them who they are. Later, Danny overhears his Uncle Tommy saying to his Uncle Ray, that they are supposed to keep Danny away from trouble. Tommy said, “He didn’t want Danny involved in any of this shit. None of it. You and me promised, Ray” (203). Even though Danny doesn’t know it at the time, his father is the one who wants to keep him out of trouble. This proves that Danny’s uncles have communicated with his father, who wants Danny to grow up to be a respectable person, not a thug. How would you have reacted to seeing this hearing about something that you didn't understand, like Danny did?

            Everything that Danny and Uno have determined about their families is quite outrageous, yet it hasn’t stopped them from hustling people and hanging out with their friends. Danny has been able to perfect his form and they have won almost every hustle. They are even able to defeat their biggest opponent Carmelo, who they hustle out of eighty dollars after fighting for their lives and the money. On their down time, the boys play some games of truth or dare with friends, and Danny even attempts to talk to Liberty.

            I cannot wait to find out how the novel ends. I’ll write soon and let you know how everything turns out. Hopefully, I can report some good news.

Sincerely,

Anne Silveira

3/17/13                                         Mexican White Boy pgs 156-224

Dear Reader,

       I am very proud of Danny because he has finally found a method to control his pitching accuracy. The trick that Danny has discovered is "clearing his mind" (Pena 156). By listening to Uno's advice, Danny has learned to "let his talent do the work" (Pena 156). By using these tools to help him, Danny has successfully won four baseball hustles. Danny's pitches now have superior precision to go along with mind-blowing velocity, so I believe that Danny will be selected on his high school baseball team next year. Danny must have felt heartbroken when the Leucadia Prep baseball coach told him that he wasn't talented enough to make the team this year. How would you feel if you were cut from a high school sports team? Do you think Danny is now talented enough to make the team next season?

       It perplexes me that Senior gave fifty dollars to a teenager who tried to rob his house. I'm surprised that Senior didn't attack the teenager or immediately call the cops to arrest him. Instead, Senior brings the robber into his house to talk to him about his personal struggles in the past. Then Senior told the robber, "I forgive you, son. You hear what I'm tellin' you? My whole family, my wife, my baby and me, we forgive you" (Pena 160). I don't understand how a man could forgive somebody who tried to steal from his house. On top of that, Senior and his wife pulled out all of the cash they possessed in their wallet and handed it over to the robber. What would you do if someone tried to break into your house? Would you forgive that person?

         Danny must feel extremely disappointed that he is unable to communicate with Liberty. Danny clearly possesses strong emotions for her when the author states, "He can't believe how pretty she is. Her skin so smooth and her hands on her knees and her thin shoulders and her perfect lips...they make his stomach feel weird" (Pena 184). I wish Danny could just learn some basic Spanish words from his family, so that he would be able to speak to Liberty. Danny's inability to understand what Liberty says makes his "stomach drop" (Pena 186). "The shame of his ignorance hits him hard, runs all through his body, make the hairs on his arms and legs go dead" (Pena 186). Danny's unfortunate situation is reminiscent of the situation that my friend Peter was in. Last year, Rita, a pretty girl from Lebanon, transferred to Peter's high school. He fell in love with Rita the second he laid eyes on her. The problem was that Rita could only speak Arabic. Like Danny, Peter only knew how to speak English, so he was unable to effectively communicate with his crush. What would you do if you couldn't communicate with your crush?

        After the encounter with the "Mexican scout" at the Padres' game, Danny discovered that the "scout" was hired by his father to watch over him. Then, Danny found out that his father is in prison, not Mexico. I felt a massive amount of sympathy for Danny because he desperately wanted to reunite with his father in Mexico. Now, his hope is crushed because his father is locked up in jail. I think he is more upset with the fact that nobody informed him that his father was in jail. How would you feel if your father was in prison? Have you ever felt like you've been let down by one of your parents?

        When Danny arrives home from the Padres' game, he "ducks into the bathroom and locks the door behind him" (Pena 222). Then, Danny "holds his left arm against the sink and runs the sharp part of the tweezers across the inside...goes back and forth in a straight line" (Pena 223). Instead of harmfully cutting himself, Danny should have sought counsel from one of his family members to cope with his frustration. Danny's habit of cutting himself in times of anxiety and frustration is similar to Callie McPherson's habit in Cut by Patricia McCormick. Callie is a fifteen-year old girl who cuts her arms in an attempt to deal with depression and loneliness. Like Danny, she speaks as little as she can and believes that self-harm will relieve her emotional pain. Do you know any characters that have behaviors similar to Callie and Danny?

       I was shocked when Ray ran over the hippie's legs. After Ray and his friends badly assaulted the hippie, Ray "flipped the Bronco into reverse and backed up...he turned the wheel slightly and pulled forward, ran over both the guy's legs" (Pena 206). This was a completely immature action that seriously injured the hippie. To make matters worse, Danny was in the car when Ray drove over the hippie. With his father in jail, Danny needs a fatherly figure to help him differentiate right from wrong in life. Instead, Ray provided Danny with a malevolent action that will haunt him for years to come. As Ray drove away, Danny looked back at the hippie "until it became nothing more than a bloody image he knew would never leave his head" (Pena 207). Hopefully, Danny will be able to recover from this horrible nightmare. In my opinion, Ray should be locked up in jail for this cruel and inhumane action. Most likely, the hippie will never be able to walk again after severely breaking his legs. Ray's action completely supports what I think is wrong in life. There was no excuse for him to lose his temper and attempt to murder the hippie. Do you believe that Ray's action was wrong?

        Lastly, I believe that the Mexican-American culture shapes the identity of Danny's family in National City. Their kitchen is filled with "the smell of fresh tortillas and chile colorado" (Pena 200). Danny's family loves to watch their favorite Mexican baseball players during games on TV in the living room. To add excitement into the house, "the radio is tuned to a Spanish music station" (Pena 200). These examples from the book help me understand that your culture affects many of the interests and passions that you possess in life.

       I can't believe I am only twenty-two pages away from the end of the book. I am excited to find out what happens next in the book. Don't worry, I'll remember to write to you soon.

                                                                                                             Sincerely,
                                                                                                                           Ankit

3/18/13 post

3/16/13                                                  
Dear Danny,

      What was going through your mind when you and Uno struck so many people?  Where you excited or proud?  Your talent is incredible and you are a great picture yet you don't tell your father about this part of your life.  On page 156 it says, "Several hustles go the exact same way.  Danny blows away whoever he is facing with almost exclusively fastballs.  And every pitch hits Uno's glove wherever he sets it.  His control problem has basically gone out the window.  The trick, Danny's found, is clearing his mind.  Just like Uno said. Getting out of the way. Letting his talent do the work" (Pena).  This must feel so great that you have finally figured out not to get nervous and mess up.

       How did you feel during the lunch with Uno and his Dad? When Uno and his Dad were talking about the break in what were your opinions.  I find that Uno has a strong relationship with his Dad.  They talk and see each other once a month.  They go out to eat and have a good time.  They always get to catch with each other's lives.  Uno will also get to live with his Dad. Do you ever miss that with your Dad?  Senior looks at you and you look away.  On page 157 it is written, "Senior continues to staring, and Danny feels like something's expected of him.  He shakes his head and loos down at his plate" (Pena).  What is your opinion of Senior.

       During the lunch you think about your hustles.  Congrats on winning 30 dollars and you saw the scout again.  What do you think of the scout and that he is watching you?  Uno and you discussed how you need a plan so you don't strike someone out as easily.  You scared and embarrassed your opponent so much that he wouldn't play another round.  On page 158 it says, "The only problem, Uno explained, was that Danny was making things look to easy" (Pena).  This must be exciting to be able to just strike someone out like it was nothing.  You must be so happy, but what is your new game plan?

       How did you feel when Senior read your mind?  Were you confused or shocked?  I have never had a physic reading before but I think I would be confused and a little creepy.  You refer to Senior as crazy. But this is before he reads your mind.  On page 163 you thought "How can this older black man from Oxnard, a person he doesn't even know, his best friends dad, how can he be the first person he's ever met who understands Danny's heart is broken" (Pena).  Were you understand Senior now or do you still believe he is crazy?

        You and Uno got into a fight with Carmelo.  I found this very suspenseful and wasn't sure if you or Uno would get hurt.  That was a lot of money you guys put on the line, and I didn't want you to lose it; that would be so sad.  You were lucky that the scout was there to help you.  What made you ignore Uno's orders to run?  I thought it was very brave of you to stay and fight, instead of running away.  What was going through your mind through this incident?

The last thing I wanted to talk to you about was you and Liberty!  When you two were on the porch together it was so cute how you tried to talk, but didn't understand each other.  I really want you guys to be able to communicate!  I know you are head over heels for her, and it would be fantastic if you got together.  I thought it was every romantic when you sat there looking outside on the steps.  It would be great if you two could talk.  On page 188 it is written, "Liberty lets her head fall against Danny's shoulder" (Pena).  I loved the two lollipops and how you considered her favorite flavor.  It was very sweet.  You really need to learn Spanish or something so you can be together.  I can't wait to see if your relationship develops!

Sincerely,
Lauren Abbott

P.S. To say you are pretty in Spanish is Tu ere bonita!

Mexican WhiteBoy

Pages 95-155

3/3/13

Dear Reader,

In Mexican WhiteBoy from pages 95-155, Danny and Uno change and learn to work together.

 

Throughout this section of the novel we find out that Uno apologizes for hittimg Danny. Why did he apologize to Sofia and not directly to Danny? Uno says this to Sofia, “‘I mean’t to tell you, man. I apologize, you know. For jumping you boy a few weeks back. I just…you feel me? It messed with my head seeing my brother’s face all bloody like that”’ (103). In this quote Uno tells Sofia that  he’s sorry for hitting Danny when he threw the baseball bat and it broke Manny’s nose. I think that Uno should have apologized directly to Danny.

 

Danny and Uno change from enemies to friends through baseball. Uno offers to catch while Danny pitches. They help each other out so that they can both follow their dreams. Uno wants to move in with his dad but needs money in order to do so. Danny wants to find his dad in Mexico but needs money to buy a plane ticket. Uno proposes the option of making money in the derbys to Danny and Danny accepts the offer. They practice together everyday, Danny pitching and Uno catching. In the first derby, Danny fails to strike out Carmelo Esposito. Uno helps Danny overcome his fear of pitching in front of people. Danny always freezes and Uno helps him clear his mind to strike out batters. Is Uno just being friendly to Danny to get money or is he actually trying to be friends with him?   

 

Mexican culture plays a big role in Mexican WhiteBoy. For example, Uno, Sofia and a bunch of her friends where going to see a movie and invited Danny. Uno then says ‘“What up, girl? Your boy can’t get no invite. This movie’s only for full-on Mexican’s? They can’t let nobody in if he got a drop of brother?”’(117). In order for Danny to watch the movie he has to sneak in. What I didn’t understand is that Danny was able to buy popcorn and drinks without a problem. He never got caught for not being 100% Mexican. I think that excluding people just because of their race is wrong. Discrimination of any kind is unfair.  Danny should have been allowed into the movies.

 

I feel that by the end of the book Danny will finally talk to Liberty and ask her on a date. Danny’s cousin Sofia is trying to set Danny and Liberty up because Danny likes her. It is getting obvious from the readers standpoint that Danny really likes Liberty. When Danny gets up to buy popcorn and drinks he realizes that Sofia asked him to buy those items at the exact time Liberty was buying food. He starts to freeze when he sees Liberty, and it’s obvious in this quote. “She gives him another smile, one that slices up all the organs in his stomach. He looks right in her eyes and feels a sharp pain in his middle, like when you look in the eyes of a little baby” (122). This is a normal feeling for a person who sees their crush. I believe that Danny will eventually talk to Liberty without freezing and ask her on a date.

I always get really confused when Danny writes to his father. In his letters he writes lies about his life. One of the lies he tells his father in the letters is about dating Liberty. This is what Danny writes, “By the way, she’s really amazing, Dad. Liberty, I mean. And smart. We talk about everything. Last night she told me she’s gonna go to college wherever I get drafted. She wants to make it work no matter what happens. Like I told you before, she’s from Mexico, so you’ll totally get along with her” (135). Danny lies about having a girlfriend and talking to her about those subjects. I think he tells his dad these things so that his dad will approve of his life and love him. Why do you think that he lies to his dad?

 

So far I have enjoyed reading Mexican WhiteBoy. I'm looking forward to what events await in the rest of the novel.

Sincerely,
Sara Houle

3/3/13                                                                       Mexican White Boy Pgs 95-155

Dear Reader,

      I don't know about you, but I am having trouble understanding why Danny is willing to forge a friendship with Uno. Just a few weeks ago, Uno immaturely punched Danny in the face and sent him to the hospital for stitches in the back of his head. With this being said, it just doesn't make sense when Danny begins to hang out with Uno by joining him on baseball hustles and practicing with him at the local baseball field. I assumed Danny would try to steer away from Uno and avoid any type of interaction with him. Instead, he has forgiven Uno for the incident at the home run derby. What would you do if you were Danny? Would you forgive Uno or would you decide to hold a permanent grudge against him?

      When Uno explained to Danny how he quit baseball, I felt a massive amount of sympathy for Uno. In his last baseball game, Uno "caught a foul tip off the mask and the metal wire of the mask broke his nose" (Pena 109). Instead of checking to see if his son was okay, Uno's father yells, "Get up, you little punk-ass bitch! Get your ass up!" (Pena 109). In my opinion, the decision made by Uno's father to yell at Uno was unjust and is the reason Uno hasn't played baseball since. This incident makes me think of my friend Roger. Three years ago, Roger was my teammate on an AAU basketball team. He was a very great basketball player, but his father would criticize him for every mistake from the sideline. Roger later told me that his father was on drugs, which is similar to Uno's father when he yelled at Uno at his baseball game. One day, Roger sprained his ankle and lay on the court grimacing in pain. Like Uno's father, Roger's father told him to get up and stop acting "like a baby". As a result, Roger decided to stop playing basketball because he couldn't tolerate his father's criticism anymore. Do you anybody that has a father like Uno? If you were in Uno's position, would you agree to quit baseball?

      I wonder why Danny lies to his dad when he writes letters to inform him what he has been doing in National City this summer. For example, Danny claims to his dad, "Look who your son's become. He's the ace of the best traveling team in the state...scouts hang on his every movement" (Pena 154). Of course, you and I both know that this event has not taken place. Do you think Danny is simply trying to impress his father by making up stories about his baseball talent? If I were Danny, I would tell my father exactly what had happened to me while visiting National City. I believe that Danny's father wants to have a better understanding of the real Danny, not the person Danny wishes he could be. Do you wish you could be someone else in life?

      In my opinion, Uno's idea of hustling baseball players with Danny is sneaky, but brilliant. Uno desperately needs five hundred dollars to live with his father in Oxnard, but he can't find any jobs that would hire him. Luckily, Uno discovered Danny's amazing pitching skills. If I needed some extra cash and I knew someone terrific at pitching, I would do exactly what Uno is doing. I know it would be risky, but I am a type of person that wouldn't be able to pass off a opportunity to make money like that. I think Danny couldn't resist joining Uno on the hustles because he needs money himself to buy a plane ticket to Mexico to find his dad. It's a win-win situation for both Danny and Uno. Hopefully, they will both earn enough money from the hustles to achieve their goals. What would you do if you needed to make five hundred dollars? Would you consider hustling people?

      As the book progresses, Danny and Uno's friendship begins to grow. I think that a great example of their friendship is after they win a hustle with a boy named Marzel. A few minutes after the hustle, Marzel is upset that Danny is talking to his girlfriend, so he "rears back to throw a punch, but out of nowhere Uno steps in and blasts the guy from the side" (Pena 153). Uno is willing to defend his new friend Danny, and he claims to Marzel, "Aint nobody touch my boy Danny like that" (Pena 153). It seems to me that this moment was the turning point that caused Danny to realize that Uno was his best friend. It must feel nice for Danny to know that he has someone that will "always have his back". Do you have any friends like Uno who will be there for you no matter what?

      I find the vocabulary in this book somewhat difficult to understand, but this is good because it allows me to expand my personal vocabulary. Luckily, I am in a Spanish class, so I understand some of the Spanish words and phrases that Pena inserts into the text. For example, I know that "mi amor" means "my love" and "mi novio" means "my boyfriend" in English. As for any Spanish words and phrases that I am unfamiliar with, I use a Spanish to English dictionary. Can you speak Spanish? Do you like how Pena combines Spanish words with English sentences?

      In my mind, Uno's father, Senior, is reminiscent of Rex Walls in The Glass Castle by Jeannette Walls. Both characters are great parents, but they have nasty, malevolent behaviors when they are drunk or on drugs. When Senior was on drugs, he harshly yelled at his son to get up in his baseball game, even though Uno broke his nose. As a result of his unjust action, his son decided to never play baseball again. After Rex got drunk off liquor, he threw furniture around the house and threatened to beat up his wife, children, or anyone else that got in his way. Senior shows flashes of being a good father when he gives Uno some helpful advice. He claims to Uno, "Now get out there and work. Don't just talk about it, be about it" (Pena 99). Like Senior, Rex proves to be a good father by serving as a role model for his children. When he was sober, he would try to invent amazing contraptions such as a gadget used to find gold based on his expertise in math and physics. Also, he would expand his children's imaginations by "demon hunting" with them. All in all, I believe that both Senior and Rex try to do everything they can to support their families, but they both have major flaws that set them back. Do you know any characters that remind you of Senior?

      The last few chapters have clearly allowed me to understand how culture affects your identity. Danny's friends, family and love for the game of baseball are all influenced by his Mexican-American descent. I believe that he should embrace who he is, not shy away from it. Who cares if other people judge you for what ethnicity you are? That's their loss, not yours. Are you proud of who you are as a person? Why do you think people judge others based on their ethnicity?

      I hope you enjoy the comments and questions I have left for you. I'll make sure to write again soon after the next reading assignment.

Sincerely,
                Ankit

3/4/13 post

3/2/13                                                                                                   Mexican White Boy pages 95- 155

Dear Reader,

     What confused me the most was that Danny and Uno are becoming friends.  After the big fight at the beginning of the book I would never expect these two to be friendly or help each other.  This was a total shock to me and I was surprised when Uno apologized and then was being a catcher for Danny.  The conflict between Uno and Danny was something that I thought would go through the entire book; now it seems like they are resolving the problem and are becoming a team.  Danny is very antisocial and Uno could possibly help him come out of his "shell".  Uno and Danny are talking and Danny says, "You could work in if you want" (Pena 111).  This exhibits that Danny is coming out and actually talking to someone.  This is a new thing and maybe Danny will finally be able to talk.  What do you think of Danny and Uno's new friendship?

       When Uno was telling his story to Danny I felt sympathetic.  Imagine quitting the sport you love because of your father's behavior; that must be awful.  Uno tells Danny, "Anyway that was the last time I played organized baseball.  I quit the next day.  Didn't even go to the championship game, man.  Or play n the all-star game.  I was through" (Pena 110).  I really did feel bad for Uno.  That must have been an extremely hard time in his life.  Would you be able to give up what you love for your father?

        I also saw some racism in the book.  Uno is having trouble getting a job because he is half African- American.  He is getting treated differently because he lives in a Mexican world.  His own stepfather who is Mexican American gets mad at him and treats Uno beneath him.  Uno is talking to Sofia, Danny's cousin, and Uno says, "It's cause my ass is half black.  It ain't right" (Pena 102).  This racism against African Americans is seen in other novels.  In the novel To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee racism is seen.  When Tom Robinson, an African American, goes to trial he is found guilty.  Even though he was clearly innocent it was a black man's word going against a white man's word.  During the 1940's and in the South African Americans were looked down upon in society.  This racism is the same a Uno, but he can't get a job.  Do you see racism in your life, and how would you feel if someone was judging you because of the color of your skin?

        At the drive-in theater I saw a development in Danny's feelings for Liberty.  He is head over heels for her, but can't find anything to say.  Danny can only "manage a little wave" (123).  It must be hard to be tongue tied, but to make matters worst he can't even communicate with her.  They speak two completely different languages!  Danny speaks English and Liberty speaks Spanish.  This must be so hard for Danny and I am really excited to see how their relationship unfolds.  I couldn't imagine not being able too communicate with the guy I like and wondering if he actually understands what I'm saying.  I feel so bad for Danny and Liberty!  How would you feel if you couldn't communicate with the person you have a crush on?

       Uno helps Danny regain his confidence on the mound.  Uno shows him the train and the power of the train.  He also shows him a way to make a wish come true.  This shows how the boys are becoming more friends. I also believe that this confidence will help Danny and Uno make the money that Uno needs to go live in Oxnard.  I  saw this confidence when they went up against a guy named Cory.  Unlike his last challenge he was able to pitch perfectly and kept remembering the train.  Uno has really helped Danny regain his confidence on the mound.  As Danny is about to pitch he "...pictures the train over his head and then pictures nothing at all" (Pena 151).  How do your friends support you and give you confidence?

         The vocabulary in the book really isn't that challenging.  I haven't found any English words that I don't understand.  When there is a Spanish word I don't understand I just use Google translate.  This is allowing my Spanish vocabulary to expand which helps, especially when I am taking Spanish.  The language also helps me learn and interpret the culture of Mexican Americans.  This book is allowing me to increase my Spanish vocabulary.

       I have really enjoyed reflecting upon this particular section of the book.  There are many scenes and development in characters that make this book enjoyable.  I  enjoy reading this novel and can't wait to continue this story.:) What are you opinions of this book?

Sincerely,
Lauren Abbott

3/4/13 anne silveira

3/4/13                                                                     Mexican White Boy Pages 95-155

Dear Danny,

            I am about half way into the novel about your adventure to find your father, and so far I am really enjoying it. Over the course of my reading experience, I notice that you write letters to your father. It pleases me to see that you are writing to him, because keeping in touch with a close family member, no matter what the circumstances, is extremely important in my mind. I appreciate your explanations about how your life is going so that your father can connect with you, yet I feel like the letters you write are about how you want your life to be going, not how it is. For example, you tell your father, “[I] made this travelling San Diego all-star team. It’s totally prestigious…I, of course pitch” (Peña 135). Events like this do not occur in your life in the novel, so it puzzles me as to what these letters are really pertaining to. The only logical reason that I can think of is that they are foreshadowing events to come. Maybe it is as if these letters are written in the future to your father about your life at that point. Is this true? If not, and you are just writing lies to your father, you should start to write what’s really happening in your life because your father will always be proud of you and you don't want him to think of you as someone you're not.

            I understand your desire to be close to your father because he is the one man you love. Even if he makes some inappropriate decisions, he is still your father, and it is common in the Mexican culture to stay in touch. When you talk about your father a hawk often comes up, and if you see a hawk you just stare up at it. Now, I know that your father has a love for these beautiful creatures, and he always points them out to you, but what is the real meaning behind the hawk in your mind? You say, “[I] pretend it’s been sent all the way from Mexico by [my] dad. To look after [me]. And then it goes back to Mexico to report what it sees” (Peña 113). Does seeing a hawk only provide you with a way to connect with your dad? Or is a hawk in a memory that makes you happy? Does it remind you of your father and his qualities of strength and courage?

            Danny, not to pick on you, but I read that when you become nervous you dig your nails into your arm. You should try and break this habit because it isn’t healthy, and it is not safe. After breaking your skin too often, you can seriously injure yourself, which I don’t want for you. I realize that you do this due to nerves, but I am curious as to how this habit started, and why you continue it, even when your good friends tell you to stop?

             Your decision to become friendly with Uno also fascinates me. Most people in this world won’t even consider becoming friends with a person who purposely injures them. Then there is you, Danny Lopez. You completely oppose how I view the world based on your decision, which is great. I assume that most people never get over their anger because they are human, and humans hold grudges. Yet you show me what it truly means to forgive and forget, making you an exceptional human, who does the right thing.  To be honest, after Uno hurt you, I stuck with the majority and predicted that you wouldn’t willingly talk to him, let alone become his friend, but I guess I am wrong. Your decision to go against my views of the world and forgive Uno completely changes that way that I look at forgiving people. I’d still like to know, why did you forgive Uno and become friends with him, anyway?

            Even though your decision shocks me, I am glad that you make it. Uno seems to be a really good friend who has brought you out of your shell. I notice that because of the anger he instills in you, you are able to bring yourself to gain some revenge. Even though revenge isn’t the answer, I am glad that you follow that path because it makes you realize that you can defend yourself. The fact that you throw your hardest fastball into his glove shows that there is a fire inside of you that just needs to be lit, which is a phenomenal quality of yours. Something I find ironic about your revenge is that at that moment you receive a friend when most people would gain an enemy. When Uno says, “I deserved that shit. Go ‘head with another one if you want to” (Peña 112), he admits his wrong doing. The fact that he is there with you, playing baseball, realizes what he has done wrong, and is willing to let you take your anger out on him shows he is really trying to be a friend.

            When you are at the train track at two o’clock in the morning, Uno is there for you once again. He lets you in on his secret karma game, and he gives you some amazing insight, just as any friend does. I love when he says, “I think how I stood under this bridge and held onto this pole and took all that train power into my body. And then it ain’t really me that’s fightin’ no more. It’s the power of the train coming outta my body. And ain’t nobody gonna mess with that kind of power” (Peña 147).  I hope that you take this to heart because I know I do. It is as if he is saying that the strength you have comes from within, after you acquire it from prior experiences, and once you harness this strength you can do anything. This applies to you because as you adapt to living with your family, you have become stronger, bolder, and more determined, which I admire.

            An instance when I observe you being a excellent friend is at the drug-store. You attempt to repay Uno for the mistakes that you make while pitching, that cause him to lose money, which gives me the sense that you truly feel awful. But when Uno refuses to take the money and says, “I’d make the same bet if I could so it all over. You just had bad karma that night” (Peña 141), he obviously believes in you, especially because he always says you’re going places. The non-reproachful relationship that you have is great and resembles true friendship.

            The way that you and Uno support each other is fantastic, so I recommend maintaining this friendship. Personally, I hold friendship as something that keeps you going in this crazy world, so don’t let it go because it will do wonders for you. Do you feel any different now that you and Uno are hanging out?

            Danny, it is clear that you love baseball and that you are a fantastic player, like many Mexicans. Your determination, the way that you practice every day, and how you approach your training, is incredible because you push yourself to the limit so that you can reach your goals. I love your mentality that, “If you think you’re strong physically, you’ll probably be stronger mentally” (Peña 107-108). This reminds me of self confidence because if you are confident in yourself you will be strong in everything that you do. You are truly an inspiration to all kids in the aspect of determination because even when you are told no, you keep going. Oh! By the way, congratulations on having a scout looking into you, you should be proud.

            The only thing that I find strange about your amazing ability is that you are using it to hustle people out of the little money that they have. Based on my knowledge, Uno concocted a hustling plan where he will convince someone to try and get a hit against you. You will let him hit a few, by throwing at an average speed. Uno will then make a bet that the batter can’t hit one before he strikes out. Then you will turn it up and strike him out easily. I can see how this is an okay plan, but why are you doing this? You can be hurt or you can find yourself in some unwanted trouble. I’m aware that Uno asks you to because he needs the money to go live with his dad, and you need the money to try and find your dad, but is hustling the best way to “earn” the money? No matter what your choice is, I want to say, whatever you do don’t get nervous when you pitch or it will throw you off. Uno says, “’Member what I said down at the tracks? ‘Bout the power of the train? It’s in here now, D…It ain’t about you no more… It’s about your right arm, man. Your talent” (Peña 151). Take this into account every time you are about to pitch. Clear your mind, pitch like you know how to, and never doubt yourself.

            Personally, I think that it is unjust for you and Uno to be doing this, but I know that this is how the world works. There are millions of hustlers, who consider this “trade”, as some may call it, to be a fantastic way to earn money, so you are not alone. The way that you are hustling people reminds me of a novel I once read called Side Hustle by Lavender Spice and Johnny Rose. It is about four people who all wind up in their own mess after hustling numerous people and lying to many others. Even though they have some success, ultimately, they all fail in the end. I don’t want you to fail to, so think about what you are doing before you get in to deep.

            Just so you know I admire you Danny. Your sense of family, friends, and a love for baseball is remarkable. It comes from your Mexican culture, so you aren’t an outsider after all, you have actually been shaped by your culture  You are a greater person than you think, no matter what the color of your skin. So stay positive and work on finding your father just don’t get into too much trouble along the way. I know you can do it.

Sincerely,

Anne Silveira

P.S. Work on learning Spanish and build up the courage so you can actually talk to Liberty.