What character do you find the most interesting or intriguing so far? Explain why you chose your character and details about his/her development that are important.
I find Willie Bodega the most interesting character in the book so far. He is an all powerful man, has plenty of money, and is respected everywhere in Spanish Harlem. However, he has one fatal weakness: Vera. When he hears this name, he instantly drops his sophisticated act and acts like a young child. It is apparent that he is in love with Vera.
Even though Nazario seems like a minor character, I find him to be intriguing because he is so mysterious. He is linked to Bodega, which makes him suspicious, but he also seems untrustworthy. When Nazario first met Chino, he smiled and seemed happy to meet him. But when he wanted to talk with Bodega again, he insisted that Chino not be part of the conversation. Chino said, "He extended his hand toward me and smiled that cold smile" (72). Why did Nazario mind if Chino were to be part of the conversation? He talked privately with Sapo, and afterall, Chino is a friend of Bodega's.
I agree with Zenya. I think Nazario is definitely the most interesting character. He is mysterious both because we don't know a lot about him or what he actually does, and because of the way he is described. On page 98, Nazario's eyes are described as "black holes, nothing could escape them, not even light, as if he could read your mind." Quinonez gives Nazario a kind of mysterious quality, but also a great deal of power that comes from his education, making his personality one that is rarely seen in el barrio. Nazario is a character the reader has to piece together because the narrator has rarely seen a person in el barrio with the same characteristics and background as Nazario. -Victoria M
I find Sapo the most intriguing character so far. Chino respects Sapo the most because he "loved Sapo because he loved himself," (3). Sapo is definetly a loner, but has such a strong personality that he will always come out on top. Also, Sapo has a trademark bite when he is in a fight. I find this intriguing because there aren't too many people who bite in a fight. Ultimately, Sapo will end up taking over Bodega's empire because he is the "strongest" character.
I find Nene the most interesting character in this novel for one, because we don't know that much about him, and secondly he's always singing. I love the lyrics he chooses because they just fit in perfectly with the current situation. For example on page 70, when Sapo is trying to get info from Nene he says, "I don't know, Sapo. I just know it's bad. 'There's somethin' happenin' here, what it is ain't exactly clear'." I think Nene is one of Quinonez's pieces of humor in the novel. I look forward to scenes with him because they are so comical. I just wonder why he sings? I want to know more about Nene and if he really does know whats going on and just doesn't tell everyone. I hope he becomes more of a prominent character in the next half of the book. - Katie C
It may be a bit too obvious, but i think chino is probably the most interesting character so far, i just find it odd the way that he is intelligent, he knows the right thing to do in every situation and yet he picks and chooses when he's going to the right thing, like when he is sitting on the couch and he should be studying, and Blanca knows it and then Sapo comes to the door and he just pushes everything to the side, like he seems to have a better idea of whats going on even more than he recognizes. Also, I like the way that during the conversation with Bodega, he just turns everything on its head, and completely reverses roles with Bodega.
I find all of the characters extremely intriguing! There is so much depth to them without Quinonez giving away too much information about them.
But for some reason I find Blanca very interesting. I love that she is so pure even though there is corruption all around her. I think that it takes a strong person to not give in to “the easy way out”.
I love the way that Quinonez uses Blanca and Negra to contrast eachother, even down to the Spanish translations of their names. When Blanca was talking to Negra on the phone, Chino said, “As she spoke with Negra, I listened to her sweet, earnest voice in the darkness of the bedroom….” I found it strange and interesting how Blanca is able to be so sweet to such an evil person, whom reflects the opposite of everything Blanca believes in.
I also enjoy reading the passages when Chino and Blanca interact. I think that they truly do care about each other and have a very special bond. The bond can be seen by the fact that Blanca calls Chino, Julio. This shows that she accepts him for who he is. Around Blanca, Chino does not need to put on the tough guy “street act”. She is able to love someone for themselves, and not for how strong or intimidating they are to other people.
Blanca’s character seems like the type of person that would do anything to avoid a confrontation and start a fight. This makes me wonder if she knows anything about Chino’s work with Bodega. She was able to put the pieces together about Sapo’s infamous biting habit, so it makes me wonder if she will be able to connect Aunt Vera to Bodega.
Although it may not be as apparent as some of the other characters, I feel that Blanca has a sense of mystery about her. For example, finding Claudia a husband. I do think it has a lot to do with just having a good heart, but I wonder if there is something she is hiding from Chino.
In my opinion, it sounds like their neighborhood could use more Blancas!!! :P
I still think that Nazario is the most interesting character because he is so crafty and intelligent. He created a trap that not even Bodega realized he was in. Nazario's game the whole time was to get Vera again, and he used so many people in the process. Not only did his sneaky actions affect Chino and Bodega, but they also hurt Blanca, like when Nazario burned down the tenement building.
What is really interesting about Nazario is how calm and cool he can be when he is causing others pain just for his own benefit. I wonder how people like him can live with themselves, knowing that they are committing dozens of crimes and hurting others. It chilled me to find out that Nazario was the true lover of Vera. Blanca's words to Chino, "You, Julio, have been played," are perfect in telling Nazario's plot. Nazario was playing a game, and Bodega, Chino, and others were important playing pieces to help Nazario win.
I find myself once again agreeing with Zenya. Nazario is definitely the most intriguing character I think because he's almost out-of-place in Spanish Harlem. His suits, his education, and the way he is portrayed as a savior to the people give him the feeling of an outsider, a person that people can't necessarily relate to but, instead, idolize. I also think the way he thinks is interesting. Nazario sees the whole picture, and he has the means to legally pursue his dream, but he deems force a more acceptable method. He holds such high and idealist goals, but the methods he utilizes to reach those goals are the very methods that left the Latinos without a voice in society in the first place. And, of course, his killing of Bodega makes him not intriguing but crafty yet merciless. The planing that went into the murder was astounding, but more astounding was the way Nazario was completely unaffected by the entire ordeal. To him it was just one more step to realizing his dream, though ironically it brought his dream crashing around him. Nazario's passion, education, cunning, and ruthlessness all make him the most interesting character in the book by far. -Victoria M
i defiantly like sapo. He's and interesting character and i think its funny whenever sapo wants chino to do him a favor he remind him of the things he's done for chino in the past. He is a loner but when he wants something he goes for it, he doesnt care about what other people will think of him.
I love the character of Sapo. Sapo is in most respects a terrible, terrible person. He gets in fights, does drugs, commits crimes, and laughs about all of it. In a story, though, this makes him enjoyable to read about because he is so unpredictable. He is very feared in the community and Chino's wife, Blanca, absolutely hates him. I love how much trouble Sapo causes.
One of the characters I find most interesting is Blanca, what she represents, and how her perspective and traits actually may push Julio in the opposite direction she desires. It seems very appropriate that her nickname, Blanca, means "white," not just because she is pure, but because she seems to embody many characteristics of white culture and reject many of the intergral elements (yes, most are negative) of her hispanic neighborhood. Perhaps by seeming so righteous and preachy and "white" she inadvertently drives Julio back to his bad friend Sapo and Bodega's dream celebrating the strengths and passion of their neighborhood and culture.
So far, I find all of the characters in "Bodega Dreams" quite interesting because they all have a unique personality and outlook life. I would have to pick Chino as the most intersting character because I feel like we know the most about him since he is our narrator. I find it interesting how Chino can balance his life at home with Blanca and with his dangerous friend, Sapo. Chino always keeps saying that he will put his deal with Bodega and Sapo to the end, but something always keeps coming up and Chino never refuses to do any favors because he knows that if he puts down Bodega, it will be like putting down Sapo. Also, everytime Sapo asks for a favor, Chino always does it, regardless of what he is doing in the moment. He is very dedicated to his friend because Sapo apparently saved his life many time when they were kids, but I wonder when and if there will be a time when Chino just refuses a favor and what Sapo will do about it...
I feel like Chino is caught in the middle of 2 world, his street life and his married life and I'm not sure if he has figured out which he belongs to or which he would rather be with. He claims to love Blanca very much but because he is caught in between his friends and wife, I don't feel like he is giving Blanca the respect she deserves. He hides so much from her and always gets away with it. I wonder how their relationship will be continued...
okay, so.. i really like vera. I want to know more about her. was her love for bodega legit? or was she like pulling him along, till she could find something better? We dont know anything about her besides the fact that she married for money, and americanized her name.
Pink Floyd has a song appropriately named "Vera" and I wanted to post the lyrics. I think they relate well to what Bodega feels when thinking about her.
Does anybody here remember Vera Lynn Remember how she said that We would meet again Some sunny day Vera! Vera! What has become of you Does anybody else in here Feel the way I do ?
I agree with Katie that Nene seems to be the most intriguing to me. I just find him such a mysterious and odd character. Its seems that everyone pretends to hate having him around, and that he is such a pain, but really they appreciate him for the light-heartedness of his nature. Though he is looked at at being very dumb and inept, I think that he is more human and intelligent than the impression he gives. I think, the fact that he is so devoted to the memorization of his song lyrics and has so much knowledge regarding music groups is an indicator that he has significant mental capacity and is more aware than most believe. -Carolyn
I find that Willie Bodega is the most intriguing character so far. It is so astonishing to me that he can come out of nowhere and suddenly become basically the king of this run-down neighborhood. This, however, is part of Bodega's appeal, which is exaggerated by the way he owns multiple homes so that no one knows where he is at any given moment. Also, you cannot just go visit a man like Bodega; he will send his men out to find you, and when they come, you must drop whatever you are doing and go. His entire operation is done in secret, with only little bits of information being spilled here and there. There is something about Bodega's obsession with Vera that is very weird and creepy as well. I fear that if Chino gets too involved with Sapo things will not end well for him, for I feel that Bodega is purposefully witholding information from Chino.
While characters like Bodega and Nazario seem to be the most complex, I find Blanca to be the most interesting. She is deeply moral and knows what is important and what she wants from her life. I think that Chino is wary of telling her a lot of things because of his worry that she will disapprove or not see where he is coming from, but I think he is wrong. She can see the truth in Sapo even when Chino cannot, and it would serve him well to listen more carefully to what she says. Her hope of attaining a green card for a member of her church shows that she can appreciate that the result can justify the means. This shows how multi-faceted her character is. It is doubtful that his wife would approve of his dealings with Bodega, and he knows that she is right, but that is not to say that she could not handle being informed of some of his troubles. It would be better for both of them if Chino divulged some of his dealings with his wife, because it is inevitable that they will snowball and envelop him.
I can't help but admire Nene, because i love how he HAS to implement lyrics into everything he says. He is a character who is surrounded by crime in a questionable lifestyle, and is repelled somewhat by his peers. Nene is essential because he lightens up the atmosphere in a underground, dark setting, causing his friends to appreciate his company because of his uplifting presence.
Not only does he lighten atmospheres, but he represents what Spanish Harlem is capable. Even if it is only in bits and pieces, he represents rational thinking and quick reactions that could convey the bright future of Spanish Harlem.
Now that I have finished the novel, Nene is one of my favorite characters. Nene is Bodega's bodyguard of a cousin. He is a man who was never blessed with great brains, but makes up for it in loyalty and compassion. Seeing Nene, such a large, burly man, weeping at his cousin's funeral really made one feel bad for him. Nene only followed orders and tried to make people happy. Also, I loved how he incorporated song lyrics into his everyday speech.
This is such a hard decision to make! All of the characters are so complex and interesting throughout this novel. I still have to say, I am a fan of Blanca. I was really proud of her for temporarily leaving Chino. It showed her strength to do even the hardest of tasks. I also think it took a lot of strength to sit through Chino’s “interrogation” with Ortiz and DeJesus, especially in front of Pastor Miguel Vasquez. Blanca is always looking for the good in people and I think that night was a huge slap in her face. She must have felt so betrayed and lonely in her marriage. When everything came to the surface, in such a short amount of time, in front of the Pastor whom she only wants to think well of her, she displayed very admirable qualities. I was also amazed at how understanding Blanca was towards Chino. Especially for a young mother-to-be, I could only imagine Blanca’s want for no trouble in their lives. I was proud of her when she stated to Chino, “I do understand. For me, it was always about you thinking I wouldn’t understand.” (199) This passage is a great example of girl power (hehe) and her caring and forgiving nature.
I find Chino the most interesting character. He seems to be caught between living the thug life that Sapo is dragging him into, and the success story that Blanca dreams of. It seems as if Chino wants both lives, even though they contradict each other, and could never work in unison. Still, Chino tries really hard to make them work together so that he does not have to choose between his "pana" and his wife. But the end result is more like a love affair than anything else. He has to sneak around so that Blanca doesn't know what he is doing, so his street life is almost like his mistress.
I think that Sapo is the most interesting character because he is the most dynamic character. Through out the book so far Sapo has changed from a loyal friend, ot a thug, to a friend to a hitman. His image is constatnly changing. I aslo like that he keeps himself somewhat mysterious and doesn't let people see how smart he is. I think he may have more knowledge and power in the neighborhood then he lets on. --Scott Hagen
I find Sapo the most interesting character. I like the fact how he relied on himself for happiness made him very interesting. Sure he sold and did drugs but it was in his persuit of happiness. The story about him biting that teacher was one of my favorite parts of the book.
At the end of the story i found the most interesting character to be Nazaio. When the whole sotry comes out and we know everything that happens he turns into a very interesting character. Just thinking about how he was able to lie and weasel his way to get to very amazed me. After you find out the truth you think back about the character Nazario.
I like Chino just because he is torn between his best friend and his wife. Although he seems all tough in the beginning of the book, he seems to care for Blanca. Chino knows Blanca will get angry if she figures out what he is doing with Bodega, but he wants to help out Sapo at the same time. As tough as Chino looks, it seems like he just wants to impress everyone and for everyone to like him, although he idolizes Sapo for being Sapo.
I really like Nene. He's so insignificant but he just seems so out of place. He's just happily singing when shady business is occuring all around him. He's just fun to read about. But by far the most intriguing character is Willie. He's so calm and professional about his "business" yet his weakness appears when Vera enters the picture. He seems naieve and childish when it comes to her and i'm intrigued to see what happens to them because i want them together. Willie is Frank Lucas from American Gangster. They're the bad guy, but you can't help but sympathize with them and root for them.
I definitely think that Sapo is the most inriguing character. I thoroughly enjoy his outlook on life as it is by far the most suitable for life in Spanish Harlem. His "who cares" and "tough guy" mentality are both effective and at the same time entertaining. The secret knowledge that he seems to have concerning Bodega's project has given him a suspicious quality that helps him develop in the eyes of the reader. We know that he is not the best person, but I think he is hiding something, whether it is good or bad makes Sapo a more intriguing and impactful character. In a way I also think that Bodega is using Chino. It's as though Sapo is in on the plan just for his connections with Chino, who has connections with Vera. (as confusing as that may sound)
I would have to say my favorite character so far is Sapo. I just find him extremely interesting and I really want to know more about how he became involved in everything with Bodega. I also am really intrigued by the relationship he has with Julio, and how he is so easily able to manipulate him by bringing up their childhood experiences. It's incredibly interesting to me that Sapo would constantly acknowledge Julio as his best friend, his "pana", and so constantly use and manipulate him. Also, of course, it says a lot about Julio. It says a lot about both of them and kind of the values of their culture, in that they value the longevity of friendship over a lot of other things. I also enjoy that there's no bullshit (am I allowed to say that?) about him; I feel like he tells it like it is and I like that he's so "street."
I'm also intrigued by Blanca, and the things she stands for, and once again, her relationship with Julio. There is such an interesting dynamic between them in that Blanca values her religion over all else and Julio values his past friendships and connections over everything else. These two things and the way they constantly clash and create tension within Julio and Blanca's relationship.
I liked Sapo the most so far. I like how he's himself in any situation and that he's tough and strong. I like the way he carries himself, acting the same towards everyone and doing little things that are interesting. He's kind of independent, but I like his bond with Chino where they can help eachother. Also I find it interesting that Sapo goes into biting during his fights. I think it's interesting because it shows he can be a no holds bar kind of guy, and may put it all on the line when he needs to. Eric Wu
I think that the most interesting character so far is Sapo. He has a mystery to him that we don't really know yet. Sapo is a crappy drug dealer, yet rides a BMW. He is either a criminal or a pana. He is obviously troubled but it is still a kind human-being, always getting his friends backs, no matter what. I found the story about his fight with his English teacher very interesting. It gave good insight to his past. For the most part, Sapo doesn't stir up fights, but he has no fear of them. I would like to find out more about his very early childhood and what caused his downfall.
I am going to agree with Victoria and Ms. Coppens on this one and say that Blanca is the most intriging character. She seems to be the voice of reason and truly wants what is best for Julio. SHe has been able to see right through Sapo from the start and could tell that he would get into trouble and bring her husband down with him. She is extremly strong for putting up with Chino's lies while he went to sneek off with Sapo and participate in shady business. Blanca is definatly the one innocent and pure character like Ms. Coppens said, and she is the positive part of the story. She gives the readers a sense of hope that maybe Chino will listen to his wife and stay away from Bodega! ~Lauren Bowker
I have found that Blanca is the most interesting so far. She appears to be worlds apart from what is happening in her neighborhood. She sees it every day and recognizes it, yet she is inspired enough to rise above it and refuses to accept her situation. Blanca's efforts to improve her own life, as well as the lives of her husband and child, is very different from characters such as Sapo, who are worried only about themselves and making money. It will be interesting to see how she develops and how the birth of her child changes her (if that even happens in this novel). I find Blanca especially interesting because of her devotion to her church and her ability to separate herself from the illegal world around her.
Definitely going to agree with what people have been saying about Blanca being the most interesting character. I feel like, although my life is nothing like hers, I can somewhat relate to her. She seems very personable, down to earth, and is definitely someone that a person can look up to in the sense that she leads a postive, healthy, lifestyle. I like the fact that she brings out the good in her husband, Chino. I feel that Chino, although he often gets mixed up with the wrong crowd, is a decent person. I admire that she remains religious, positive (for the most part), and stays true to herself despite the crazy world around her. I think she'll be a great mother!
I like Blanca too, as many have said, but to be a devil's advocate I think she definately has some flaws. Despite her coming pregnancy and moral values, I think it is somewhat unreasonable for her to expect Chino to completely disassociate with his friends. She should have been able to trust him enough to use good judgement himself, instead of acting as if she was his mother.
After finishing the book, I think I might consider Nazario to be the most intriguing. He seemed to have such deceptive ways of manipulating situations throughout the story, and at the end it's revealed his goal the whole time had been to carry out a manipulation of a much larger scale. The coldness of his final actions, and descriptions of him throughout give him such a feeling of evilness! To relate it way back--he's a "Cathy character" in a different environment. -Carolyn Maiorana
Personally i find Nene the most interesting. I feel that he has had a very interesting past that has sent him on a time warp. I love how he uses lyrics in his speach, and that one characteristic has made he laugh out loud several times. Although he has a smaller role in the story i think that Nene is fantastic.
After finishing the book I have to say that I am the most intested in Vera. How can someone shoot her own husband who loved her and came up to New York because he thought she was in trouble just to be with another guy? I think that an entire other book about her life would be a very good read. Everything that happened in the novel happened because of Vera, and yet we as readers do not know very much about her at all.
Once again, I still find Sapo the most intriguing. He bites in scraps and has no regard for other people's feelings when he speaks. In essence he speaks his mind and has the "street cred" to back it up. I agree with Jill because I believe Sapo is able to manipulate Chino in almost any situation. However, I think this is because for Chino's whole life Sapo has had his back no matter what happens, and this is very important in Spanish Harlem because without someone tough to back you up, you're toast.
I think, in the end, Bodega seems the most interesting. At first, he seems all tough and mighty, and that is what he wants everyone to percieve him as, but underneath the manly facade, he is really a gushy guy. He so badly wants to be with Vera, and his whole life is driven by this lost love, yet, he only allows Chino to see this side of him, and only because Chino is the only person who can help him pursue Vera.
All considered, I think it comes to no surprise that the title man of the novel, Willie Bodega, is the most interesting character. As big as a drug lord as they come, Bodega stands on top of Spanish Harlem with the money to prove it. Glory aside, the fact that he is able to lead essentially an 'amry' (in the words of Nazario) by his side and conduct a neighborhood to a better life. He continually empowers Spanish Harlem with his visions of running East Harlem through crime, and one day becoming a man politicians recognize as a force to be reckoned with. This is why Bodega rules Harlem and I find him to be the intriguing character he was lead up to be.
After finishing the novel, I find Bodega the most interesting. It's not his illegal and controversial lifestyle that make me like him, but his attitude and outlook upon life. With the power that he had he could have easily rid the city of all who threatened him (or the ones known to threaten him). Instead he did what was in the end right. He can not be blamed for Vera's Miami husband's death since he had no intention of the killing and in the end he still took the blame. Some might have not benefitied from his action but he set Spanish Harlem up for success and a better future. In the end, it was his get the job done mentality that made him my favorite. Unlike some of the other characters, he set out to accomplish his goals and did not jsut hope that some day he would be successful.
At the beginning of the book i was not drawn to the chracter of Sapo, but now that i have finished i would have to say he is my favorite. Sapo is a character that truely symbolizes the idea of brotherhood and the bond that two people can have. Throughout the story Sapo and Chino are panas and because of this they can rely on each other for almost anything even if Sapo wants Chino to hold on to his drugs. i think Sapo is themost important charcter because he stands for something truely important in everyone's lives friendship
I find Sapo to be the most interesting character thus far. Although he may come across as rude and inconsiderate, that is what makes him so interesting. He is his own man. In JR High it was only he who was the same around Blanca and did not care that she beautiful or a church girl. Sapo was the same around everyone. He was probably the best example of someone being themselves no matter what. -Will
I find Nazario an interesting character because of how much the story revolves around him but so little is actually mentioned about him. The story progresses not because of Bodega's Dreams, but because of Nazario's manipulation to pursue Bodega. The reader, as well as many minor characters in the novel, find Nazario respectable, albeit shady. However, it is the ability to make both Julio and readers to trust in him, like in the apartment fire.
By the end of the novel it is apparent that Nazario is much more interesting than he was through the first 180 pages. He was just Bodega's partner who had a degree in law. Now he is the master puppeteer who played everyone. I was surprised that he was able to fool Sapo because Sapo always seemed to know more than Bodega did.
As the novel worn on, it became apparent that Nazario was the most interesting character. He was a street savy lawyer who knew how to get things done. My favorite example of this was when he first met Bodega and he told him to price the hot dogs at a certain price, and to give away the heroine for free, so he would only get charged with possession, and not intent to distribute. Also he was clearly interesting because he was the mastermind behind Bodega's dream, he got everything taken care of except the money which Bodega handled. Nazario found away to side step every obstacle, including Bodega. He planned from the beginning to kill Bodega so he could be with Vera, and he would have gotten clean away with it if Negra hadn't informed Chino. -Will
So far I would have to say that Julio is the most interesting character. He has a very different outlook on life than others. He lives a pretty good life, but acts all bad-ass on the side with Sapo. When he was younger, he was just looking for a fight so that he could get his name, Chino. Chino can get very tied up in decisions based on what is right and what is easier. He has kept Sapo as a friend for life even though his wife does not approve of Sapo or what Sapo does. It is almost as if Chino lives a double life, but it seems like with all that he does, he is out for the best for everybody.
I think my opinion changed from who I thought was the most interesting character half way and now. I must say Vera was the most interesting character. Although she was sick of her husband, and was going to kill her, there was something inside me that could sense some innocence in her. After I found out about her and Nazario's plan, I realized Vera was just playing with people the whole time, and I took it personal. After feeling bad for Vera throughout the story, I felt like she stabbed me right in the back by loving Nazario and her part in the plan to kill Bodega. I mean come on. -Eric H
I hated Veronica, which is what makes her so interesting. She's 10 times worse than Daisy just because she had such twisted morals and I cant even imagine what her though process was throughout this. I realize people do crazy things for love, but she was an absurd character with messed up priorities. As much as I hated her, I have to admit, the story wouldnt be as interesting without her distinct personality.
My favorite character is still Sapo, up til now he's always been consisten in everything he does, and that's why I love his character. He's always himself, people don't affect him, he stands for himself, believes in himself and always trusts in himself. He's confident, even cocky in a way, but the way he talks to Chino, and others the way it's always the same is admirable in a way because he's alwasy himself and that's why he's my favorite character. I also really like Nazario, because I was convinced that he was a good guy til the end, so his deception was truly and interesting addition to the book.
i think that the characters that are explained the least prove to be the most interesting. take nene for example. His singing really makes one wonder how he got to be this way. i don't think that it's just to amuse himself, nor do i think its just because hes stupid. I think that something happened to him to make him that way. Also, i have "hot town, summer in the city" stuck in my head, and those are the only words i know from that song. - Cameron
willie is also an interesting character. he isn't what you think of when you think of your classic mob boss, kingpin, etc. He didn't really seem intimidating at all, even before the whole Vera business. His underlings talk back to him, and when Chino refuses his offer, he feels bad. There are no consequences at all. Even besides Vera and Nazario, it seems like people play him more than the other way around, which seems counterintuitive. It describes how he got to be where he is, but even so i can;t see how he got so high up with his skill at reading people. I find it hard to beleive that Nazario could play him for THAT long. he has to have something that makes him good at what he does. I just cant see what it is. -Cameron
Originally, I felt like Blanca was one of the most interesting characters. However, after reading more, my attention was definitely focused on Nazario instead. I never really expected that Nazario was such a clever and intelligent, yet evil, mastermind. He worked behind the scenes... he's pretty shady. Although he was working for Bodega, really he had all the power in that he was scheming all along. I loved that a character with more of a minor role wound up being the character that altered the ending of the book.
Nazario is someone i really like now. When you first heard of him you thought of him being shady and someone who was up to no good. Now that i see he's all for helping people, and when the fire ruined chino and blanca's apartment along with everyone else living there he was willing and more than happy to give the people a new home.
I would have to say that my most favorite character is Sapo. He is truly a comical guy, yet he still portrays that "tough guy", "nothing can get past me", "insensitive" side. When he is doing drugs, committing felonies, and walking around with quite an ego, he still creates an unpredictable feeling inside the readers mind. He was enjoyable because he was a threat to the community, and quite a disgrace to Blanca, Chino's wife. The trouble that he causes kept me interested and made me laugh. Inside he contains a secretive quality, nor good nor bad, that allows him to obtain the title of an intriguing and suspenseful character.
After finishing the novel, I find it even harder to pick the most interesting character. I agree with Kelsey in that the novel would not be the same without crazy Vera. She definetly added a lot of excitement towards the end of the novel which made it even more enjoyable to read. I would not have guessed that she slept around with all of these guys.
However, from the beggining of the novel, I still agree that Chino is the most interesting character. It just makes me laugh how he is conviniently present at most of the drastic scenes in the novel such as Vera killing John Vidal and the police arresting Naziro, Vera, and Nene. He's just everywhere at the right time and always says the right thing, even if someone doesn't tell him to say it. I think that throughout the novel he developed a lot as a character and realized what is important in life, such as Blanca and life. He's just so intersting in the decisions he makes and how he's associated with every character in the novel. He also seems so stressed out in the end, but thats what he gets for being mr. popular. The novel wouldn't have been the same without Chino as the narrator and one of the most important characters.
By the end of the book, my favorite character was Nazario. Although he played a minor and untrustworthy character in the beginning of the book, he portrayed a more accepting role by the end. He came off as being very suspicious and "shady" as Scopes said, but it is clear that he ends up helping people. One of the most distinct examples of this is when the fire burns Blanca's and Chino's apartment down. Nazario and the people living there were more than welcome to help and serve as assistance to give the people who lost their homes a new place to live. He has a great deal of power that is seen through his personality.
i LOVE Nene. i dont know how you couldn't love Nene (although the other characters seem to get annoyed with him sometimes). I think its absolutely brilliant that he speaks in lyrics... i mean... who DOES that? but he's such a funny character because everyone else in the book is all concerned with drugs and love and money and fights and living in SPANISH HARLEM... and Nene is just like "oh what a beautiful mornin'!" He's the comic releif that the book needs. And i agree with what carolyn said about him being the most human, because i think that, even though he's supposedly not very bright, he seems to be very loyal and light hearted. He reminds me so much of Lennie from Of Mice and Men (i'm taking a trip down memory lane to freshman year): this massive, hefty man, who's not very bright and just like "lalala!" about life.
Favorite character, still Chino Most intriuging character, Nazario
man, i hope Nazario rots in prison, what he did was just horrible, the worst kind of treason, and all of Spanish Harlem has to pay for it, like, its just wrong, but i dont think what is intriguing about him is the fact that hi could mastermind it all, its that he can live with himself, and that he can still think its for the best. thats what intrigues me, i want to know how Nazario feels about the man and his son who show up at the end of the book searching in vain for Bodega.
i would also like to add that anytime i was reading about Nene, i would picture John Malkovich (he was lenny in Of Mice and Men), EVEN THOUGH i knew he was supposed to be hispanic.
After finishing the novel, I still find Blanca to be very interesting, especially because of her strength. However, I found Nene to be fascinating at the end of the novel because of the exact opposite reason. When he was taken away by the cops, it didn't matter that he was being arrested or that the future of the whole operation had crumbled, he was just busy in his sorrow over Bodega. On page 209 Chino remarks, "I only felt for Nene. He kept crying because his cousin was dead. I felt sad for him and knew he had no idea what had happened. Nene had just done what he had been told. All he wanted was his cousin back."
While it'd likely that from Chino's perspective the view is a little warped, but this passage still makes me feel for Nene. He seemed more human than he had at any earlier point in the novel, when he was nothing more than a brutish jukebox. Especially when Chino realized that he had been the one who had killed Bodega, Nene was a brainless hitman whose only real talent was that he could quote some pretty fantastic music. But after his cousin died, it became clear that Nene was more than he seemed, and though he could murder in cold blood, he was still capable of emotion.
In the first half of the novel, I found that Sapo was a very interesting character. His "I don't give a f*$# what you think of me" attitude was shy in no way. I admired his individuality and how he looked out for his friend Chino. While reading, I felt intrigued to hear of the next crazy story that would pop up with Sapo in the leading roll!
Contrary to what I posted earlier, by the end of the novel I was sick of Sapo. I found him to be very annoying and very demanding. I felt that he abused his friendship with Chino in thinking that just becuase they were friends for so long he could jepordize Chino's relationship with his wife so that Sapo could just hide some of his crap. He just irratated me so much and I found myself not paying too close attention to scene's he was in because I found him so annoying.
I found Sapo to be a very interesting character. He seems like such a lost soul, one who does not truly understand their reasons for living. He seems to just hide behind others, working the whole time, unable to pick his own future. Though, while in school, Sapo is the rebellious child that refuses to do homework or even learn, he really only has one friend: Chino. After Chino gets married to Blanca, and he is unable to spend as much time with Sapo, always unwilling to put himself into Sapo's dirty work, Sapo must find another person to rely on; this is where Bodega steps in. His tough guy act can be deceiving, making a single character feel as though you're reading about two different people. Sapo's character, in general, is just peculier. That whole biting flesh part is quite abnormal.
How could I not say Nazzario was the most interesting character. I would be lying if I said I saw that coming. It is interesting to know that Nazzario seemingly lived and based his life on Bodega, only to kill him in the end. All this time he was working for Bodega, he was really working against him. He spoke of creating a better race of latinos that would escape their stereotypical ways, but in the end we find out that he is no better than a heartless criminal.
Blanca is still my favorite character mostly because she never changed. Her position and opinions on the business Sapo and Bodega ended up doing never changed. She was never fake in order to get others to like her. She never sensored herself on what she felt. For example she would always tell Chino how she felt about Sapo and how she thought he was a terrible influence and she would tell him this right in front of Sapo. This led to many disagreements between Blanca and Sapo however Blanca always stood by her feelings and would speak her mind in order to get Chino to stay away from them. In the end this ultimately worked because Chino does make the decision that Blanca is what is important in his life. I must agree with shay on the fact that Nene is a very likable character and brings some comedy in a heavy time. Nene is definatly the most unique characters and because of his strange behaviors, he is immediatly intriguing ~Lauren Bowker
I find Willie Bodega to be the most interesting character, mostly because his character is so mysterious and slowy revealed. You never really get one full description of him, you just find out about him through Chino's meeting with him and the brief bits of information that Sapo gives about him. At first all you find out about him for a couple of chapters is that he changed Chino's life, and that he "...would go down as a representation of all the ugliness in Spanish Harlem and also all the good it was capable of being." (14)
Blanca became one of my favorite charcters only after the part where Chino and her argued about her religion and how the Bible versus the way she wanted to be treated contradicted each other. When Chino brought this point up, about how the Bible tells of how the men always do whatever they want without informing their women, is contracting the way she wants to live, with Chino telling her everything that goes on. Chino questions which way is actually correct, because he knows the right thing to do is tell her but he doesn't want her to be mad that he's not following the Bible. Ultimately resulting in a lose-lose situation for Chino. After trying to defend her faith, pretty unsuccessfully, is Blanca seen as almost a human. I felt as though with Blanca always described as being perfect and beautiful, it was a nice twist having her realize she might be wrong in this case. I feel like she always blames Chino for everything, and then Chino points out that he's only trying to do what she wants him to do, with the fault ultimately being aimed back at her. To make her character more realistic, Blanca needed something to be wrong with her-it's human to make mistakes and Quinonez needed to show that.
So at first I had said by favorite character was Nene, but now I am thinking that the most intriguing character would have to be Vera. When I read about her telling all her friends that she donated to the school, but she knew all along that someone had donated for her. I thought it was interesting that as soon as she saw Bodega she got just as nervous to see him, as he was to see her. Just the fact that she changed her name to Vera, from Veronica, is interesting. Also the fact that she is willling to go anywhere with Bodega and even admits that she doesn't love her current husband (exactly as Bodega suspected) makes me curious about her. I sort of think she is just after money still and that all of Bodega's expensive things, make him more lovable to her.
In the beginning I thought that Willie Bodega was the most interesting character, but at the end I thought that Blanca was more interesting. I found her character to be very complex and displays how many people have trouble with their heritage and their religion. Even through her nickname you can see that although she is Spanish she has a lot of qualities that are "white". She is trying to better her life and she thinks she can do this by blending in more with the white culture, even though at the beginning she appears to be upset with Vera for doing just that. Blanca's religion and beliefs are the basis of many of her qualities, and also of her troubles. Often she does not want Chino to do things, and she does not do things because she is worried about what the people from her church will think. This concern about what others think can also be related to how she is very "white" for a Spanish person, because she is always worried about how others see her and if she is doing the right thing in order to fit into their society.
i also think that Nazario is a pretty complex character and he really intrigues me. He's described as a "chameleon" on page 98 and thats such a perfect word for him because he seriously knows how to manipulate people. He's also very mysterious. Victoria had a quote, also from page 98, that described his eyes as "black holes, nothing could escape them, not even light, as if he could read your mind." and Quinonez really has a great way to elaborating on the mystery that lies beneath those eyes. and who knew that the mystery was that he was manipulating Bodega to get Vera? thats the ultimate manipulation, to be able to use the person he's working for to get what that person wants.... (did that make sense?) And how cold he could be (stabbing his friend in the back and burning down people's houses anyone?). Zenya brought up a great quote about how he "smiled that cold smile" and you could really feel it.
I think that I am going to have to stick with Chino. I feel that he is a very well-developed character and is really set out to live the best life possible. He really makes an attempt to live a healthy life and when he feels that he has made somebody mad he will make it up to them. One example of this is when he gets into a fight with Blanca over her religion, he later goes to church with her, because he knows that this will please her, and he wants her to be happy. He tries to keep himself out of trouble and do what is best for him and those around him.
I found Vera's character the most interesting, simply because she appears to me to be the most twisted character in the story. She kills two men who love her and who would do anything for her. Saying that she is selfish would be an anemic understatement. Out of all the characters I find her the most unlikable. (However, Nazario is a close second.) She contributes nothing positive to anybody in her life. She was only looking out for herself, which is so different from the rest of the community which sticks together and covers up for each other.
As the plot moved farther on, I became really intrigued by Blanca and her ability to stay so... pure amidst everything. Chino just keeps getting pulled deeper and deeper into this web of lies and crime and it obviously effects Blanca because of their marriage, but she still remains so true to her religion and her devotion to God. Despite being married to Chino and having and sister like Negra, an aunt like Vera, she was never involved (at least never directly) in anything to do with Bodega, and that was all by choice. I admire her perseverance in her faith and her ability to rise above the crime that goes on in her community.
One of the characters i find most interesting is Chino. It seems as though he has a stable life. He has finally cleaned himself up. He's not getting in fights everyday like he was back in high school, he's got a beautiful wife BLanca, and i find it very interesting how Sapo, one of his closest friends, tries to pull him into this drug world where Chino can only get in trouble and ruin the lives of both himself, and his pregnant wife. Further more, i was always intrigued by Chino's background story, having always wanted a nickname in order to define who he was. But in the end, looking cool in high school isn't the point of school, and i find it interesting how Chino could never really figure that out.
in regards to the second half the book, i felt that all the characters were very interesting, especially because as more got introduced, and the longer the story went on, the deeper the history and backgrounds of each character went.
However, Blanca sort of interested me by the end because it seemed like she continuosly cause a lot of tension between her and Chino and his new established life style, more so than in the beginning. Race and her Spanish "whiteness" becomes prominent in the story, and Blanca causes problems with her strict, "white culture attitude." It interests me that as the story goes on, she doesn't become any more open minded, but in the same sense, i can understand because she doesn't want her life, nor Chino's to go down the toilet.
80 comments:
I find Willie Bodega the most interesting character in the book so far. He is an all powerful man, has plenty of money, and is respected everywhere in Spanish Harlem. However, he has one fatal weakness: Vera. When he hears this name, he instantly drops his sophisticated act and acts like a young child. It is apparent that he is in love with Vera.
-bowen
Even though Nazario seems like a minor character, I find him to be intriguing because he is so mysterious. He is linked to Bodega, which makes him suspicious, but he also seems untrustworthy. When Nazario first met Chino, he smiled and seemed happy to meet him. But when he wanted to talk with Bodega again, he insisted that Chino not be part of the conversation. Chino said, "He extended his hand toward me and smiled that cold smile" (72). Why did Nazario mind if Chino were to be part of the conversation? He talked privately with Sapo, and afterall, Chino is a friend of Bodega's.
- zenya m
I agree with Zenya. I think Nazario is definitely the most interesting character. He is mysterious both because we don't know a lot about him or what he actually does, and because of the way he is described. On page 98, Nazario's eyes are described as "black holes, nothing could escape them, not even light, as if he could read your mind." Quinonez gives Nazario a kind of mysterious quality, but also a great deal of power that comes from his education, making his personality one that is rarely seen in el barrio. Nazario is a character the reader has to piece together because the narrator has rarely seen a person in el barrio with the same characteristics and background as Nazario.
-Victoria M
I find Sapo the most intriguing character so far. Chino respects Sapo the most because he "loved Sapo because he loved himself," (3). Sapo is definetly a loner, but has such a strong personality that he will always come out on top. Also, Sapo has a trademark bite when he is in a fight. I find this intriguing because there aren't too many people who bite in a fight. Ultimately, Sapo will end up taking over Bodega's empire because he is the "strongest" character.
-Eric Leone
I find Nene the most interesting character in this novel for one, because we don't know that much about him, and secondly he's always singing. I love the lyrics he chooses because they just fit in perfectly with the current situation. For example on page 70, when Sapo is trying to get info from Nene he says, "I don't know, Sapo. I just know it's bad. 'There's somethin' happenin' here, what it is ain't exactly clear'." I think Nene is one of Quinonez's pieces of humor in the novel. I look forward to scenes with him because they are so comical. I just wonder why he sings? I want to know more about Nene and if he really does know whats going on and just doesn't tell everyone. I hope he becomes more of a prominent character in the next half of the book.
- Katie C
It may be a bit too obvious, but i think chino is probably the most interesting character so far, i just find it odd the way that he is intelligent, he knows the right thing to do in every situation and yet he picks and chooses when he's going to the right thing, like when he is sitting on the couch and he should be studying, and Blanca knows it and then Sapo comes to the door and he just pushes everything to the side, like he seems to have a better idea of whats going on even more than he recognizes. Also, I like the way that during the conversation with Bodega, he just turns everything on its head, and completely reverses roles with Bodega.
I find all of the characters extremely intriguing! There is so much depth to them without Quinonez giving away too much information about them.
But for some reason I find Blanca very interesting. I love that she is so pure even though there is corruption all around her. I think that it takes a strong person to not give in to “the easy way out”.
I love the way that Quinonez uses Blanca and Negra to contrast eachother, even down to the Spanish translations of their names. When Blanca was talking to Negra on the phone, Chino said, “As she spoke with Negra, I listened to her sweet, earnest voice in the darkness of the bedroom….” I found it strange and interesting how Blanca is able to be so sweet to such an evil person, whom reflects the opposite of everything Blanca believes in.
I also enjoy reading the passages when Chino and Blanca interact. I think that they truly do care about each other and have a very special bond. The bond can be seen by the fact that Blanca calls Chino, Julio. This shows that she accepts him for who he is. Around Blanca, Chino does not need to put on the tough guy “street act”. She is able to love someone for themselves, and not for how strong or intimidating they are to other people.
Blanca’s character seems like the type of person that would do anything to avoid a confrontation and start a fight. This makes me wonder if she knows anything about Chino’s work with Bodega. She was able to put the pieces together about Sapo’s infamous biting habit, so it makes me wonder if she will be able to connect Aunt Vera to Bodega.
Although it may not be as apparent as some of the other characters, I feel that Blanca has a sense of mystery about her. For example, finding Claudia a husband. I do think it has a lot to do with just having a good heart, but I wonder if there is something she is hiding from Chino.
In my opinion, it sounds like their neighborhood could use more Blancas!!! :P
~Victoria Welch
I still think that Nazario is the most interesting character because he is so crafty and intelligent. He created a trap that not even Bodega realized he was in. Nazario's game the whole time was to get Vera again, and he used so many people in the process. Not only did his sneaky actions affect Chino and Bodega, but they also hurt Blanca, like when Nazario burned down the tenement building.
What is really interesting about Nazario is how calm and cool he can be when he is causing others pain just for his own benefit. I wonder how people like him can live with themselves, knowing that they are committing dozens of crimes and hurting others. It chilled me to find out that Nazario was the true lover of Vera. Blanca's words to Chino, "You, Julio, have been played," are perfect in telling Nazario's plot. Nazario was playing a game, and Bodega, Chino, and others were important playing pieces to help Nazario win.
Zenya M
I find myself once again agreeing with Zenya. Nazario is definitely the most intriguing character I think because he's almost out-of-place in Spanish Harlem. His suits, his education, and the way he is portrayed as a savior to the people give him the feeling of an outsider, a person that people can't necessarily relate to but, instead, idolize. I also think the way he thinks is interesting. Nazario sees the whole picture, and he has the means to legally pursue his dream, but he deems force a more acceptable method. He holds such high and idealist goals, but the methods he utilizes to reach those goals are the very methods that left the Latinos without a voice in society in the first place. And, of course, his killing of Bodega makes him not intriguing but crafty yet merciless. The planing that went into the murder was astounding, but more astounding was the way Nazario was completely unaffected by the entire ordeal. To him it was just one more step to realizing his dream, though ironically it brought his dream crashing around him. Nazario's passion, education, cunning, and ruthlessness all make him the most interesting character in the book by far.
-Victoria M
i defiantly like sapo. He's and interesting character and i think its funny whenever sapo wants chino to do him a favor he remind him of the things he's done for chino in the past. He is a loner but when he wants something he goes for it, he doesnt care about what other people will think of him.
- Kristen Scopetski
I love the character of Sapo. Sapo is in most respects a terrible, terrible person. He gets in fights, does drugs, commits crimes, and laughs about all of it. In a story, though, this makes him enjoyable to read about because he is so unpredictable. He is very feared in the community and Chino's wife, Blanca, absolutely hates him. I love how much trouble Sapo causes.
-Matt Campbell
One of the characters I find most interesting is Blanca, what she represents, and how her perspective and traits actually may push Julio in the opposite direction she desires. It seems very appropriate that her nickname, Blanca, means "white," not just because she is pure, but because she seems to embody many characteristics of white culture and reject many of the intergral elements (yes, most are negative) of her hispanic neighborhood. Perhaps by seeming so righteous and preachy and "white" she inadvertently drives Julio back to his bad friend Sapo and Bodega's dream celebrating the strengths and passion of their neighborhood and culture.
-Ms. Coppens
So far, I find all of the characters in "Bodega Dreams" quite interesting because they all have a unique personality and outlook life. I would have to pick Chino as the most intersting character because I feel like we know the most about him since he is our narrator. I find it interesting how Chino can balance his life at home with Blanca and with his dangerous friend, Sapo. Chino always keeps saying that he will put his deal with Bodega and Sapo to the end, but something always keeps coming up and Chino never refuses to do any favors because he knows that if he puts down Bodega, it will be like putting down Sapo. Also, everytime Sapo asks for a favor, Chino always does it, regardless of what he is doing in the moment. He is very dedicated to his friend because Sapo apparently saved his life many time when they were kids, but I wonder when and if there will be a time when Chino just refuses a favor and what Sapo will do about it...
I feel like Chino is caught in the middle of 2 world, his street life and his married life and I'm not sure if he has figured out which he belongs to or which he would rather be with. He claims to love Blanca very much but because he is caught in between his friends and wife, I don't feel like he is giving Blanca the respect she deserves. He hides so much from her and always gets away with it. I wonder how their relationship will be continued...
~Maryam Semenov
okay, so.. i really like vera. I want to know more about her. was her love for bodega legit? or was she like pulling him along, till she could find something better? We dont know anything about her besides the fact that she married for money, and americanized her name.
Pink Floyd has a song appropriately named "Vera" and I wanted to post the lyrics. I think they relate well to what Bodega feels when thinking about her.
Does anybody here remember Vera Lynn
Remember how she said that
We would meet again
Some sunny day
Vera! Vera!
What has become of you
Does anybody else in here
Feel the way I do ?
-Steph
I agree with Katie that Nene seems to be the most intriguing to me. I just find him such a mysterious and odd character. Its seems that everyone pretends to hate having him around, and that he is such a pain, but really they appreciate him for the light-heartedness of his nature. Though he is looked at at being very dumb and inept, I think that he is more human and intelligent than the impression he gives. I think, the fact that he is so devoted to the memorization of his song lyrics and has so much knowledge regarding music groups is an indicator that he has significant mental capacity and is more aware than most believe.
-Carolyn
I find that Willie Bodega is the most intriguing character so far. It is so astonishing to me that he can come out of nowhere and suddenly become basically the king of this run-down neighborhood. This, however, is part of Bodega's appeal, which is exaggerated by the way he owns multiple homes so that no one knows where he is at any given moment. Also, you cannot just go visit a man like Bodega; he will send his men out to find you, and when they come, you must drop whatever you are doing and go. His entire operation is done in secret, with only little bits of information being spilled here and there. There is something about Bodega's obsession with Vera that is very weird and creepy as well. I fear that if Chino gets too involved with Sapo things will not end well for him, for I feel that Bodega is purposefully witholding information from Chino.
-Shannon Langella
While characters like Bodega and Nazario seem to be the most complex, I find Blanca to be the most interesting. She is deeply moral and knows what is important and what she wants from her life. I think that Chino is wary of telling her a lot of things because of his worry that she will disapprove or not see where he is coming from, but I think he is wrong. She can see the truth in Sapo even when Chino cannot, and it would serve him well to listen more carefully to what she says. Her hope of attaining a green card for a member of her church shows that she can appreciate that the result can justify the means. This shows how multi-faceted her character is. It is doubtful that his wife would approve of his dealings with Bodega, and he knows that she is right, but that is not to say that she could not handle being informed of some of his troubles. It would be better for both of them if Chino divulged some of his dealings with his wife, because it is inevitable that they will snowball and envelop him.
-Christina
I can't help but admire Nene, because i love how he HAS to implement lyrics into everything he says. He is a character who is surrounded by crime in a questionable lifestyle, and is repelled somewhat by his peers. Nene is essential because he lightens up the atmosphere in a underground, dark setting, causing his friends to appreciate his company because of his uplifting presence.
Not only does he lighten atmospheres, but he represents what Spanish Harlem is capable. Even if it is only in bits and pieces, he represents rational thinking and quick reactions that could convey the bright future of Spanish Harlem.
putnam
Steph- I love the Pink Floyd lyrics- interesting!
-Ms. Coppens
Now that I have finished the novel, Nene is one of my favorite characters. Nene is Bodega's bodyguard of a cousin. He is a man who was never blessed with great brains, but makes up for it in loyalty and compassion. Seeing Nene, such a large, burly man, weeping at his cousin's funeral really made one feel bad for him. Nene only followed orders and tried to make people happy. Also, I loved how he incorporated song lyrics into his everyday speech.
-Matt Campbell
This is such a hard decision to make! All of the characters are so complex and interesting throughout this novel. I still have to say, I am a fan of Blanca. I was really proud of her for temporarily leaving Chino. It showed her strength to do even the hardest of tasks. I also think it took a lot of strength to sit through Chino’s “interrogation” with Ortiz and DeJesus, especially in front of Pastor Miguel Vasquez. Blanca is always looking for the good in people and I think that night was a huge slap in her face. She must have felt so betrayed and lonely in her marriage. When everything came to the surface, in such a short amount of time, in front of the Pastor whom she only wants to think well of her, she displayed very admirable qualities. I was also amazed at how understanding Blanca was towards Chino. Especially for a young mother-to-be, I could only imagine Blanca’s want for no trouble in their lives. I was proud of her when she stated to Chino, “I do understand. For me, it was always about you thinking I wouldn’t understand.” (199) This passage is a great example of girl power (hehe) and her caring and forgiving nature.
~Victoria Welch
I find Chino the most interesting character. He seems to be caught between living the thug life that Sapo is dragging him into, and the success story that Blanca dreams of. It seems as if Chino wants both lives, even though they contradict each other, and could never work in unison. Still, Chino tries really hard to make them work together so that he does not have to choose between his "pana" and his wife. But the end result is more like a love affair than anything else. He has to sneak around so that Blanca doesn't know what he is doing, so his street life is almost like his mistress.
~Alyssa
I think that Sapo is the most interesting character because he is the most dynamic character. Through out the book so far Sapo has changed from a loyal friend, ot a thug, to a friend to a hitman. His image is constatnly changing. I aslo like that he keeps himself somewhat mysterious and doesn't let people see how smart he is. I think he may have more knowledge and power in the neighborhood then he lets on.
--Scott Hagen
I find Sapo the most interesting character. I like the fact how he relied on himself for happiness made him very interesting. Sure he sold and did drugs but it was in his persuit of happiness. The story about him biting that teacher was one of my favorite parts of the book.
At the end of the story i found the most interesting character to be Nazaio. When the whole sotry comes out and we know everything that happens he turns into a very interesting character. Just thinking about how he was able to lie and weasel his way to get to very amazed me. After you find out the truth you think back about the character Nazario.
Steve Lesnikowski
I like Chino just because he is torn between his best friend and his wife. Although he seems all tough in the beginning of the book, he seems to care for Blanca. Chino knows Blanca will get angry if she figures out what he is doing with Bodega, but he wants to help out Sapo at the same time. As tough as Chino looks, it seems like he just wants to impress everyone and for everyone to like him, although he idolizes Sapo for being Sapo.
That was Eric H by the way
I really like Nene. He's so insignificant but he just seems so out of place. He's just happily singing when shady business is occuring all around him. He's just fun to read about. But by far the most intriguing character is Willie. He's so calm and professional about his "business" yet his weakness appears when Vera enters the picture. He seems naieve and childish when it comes to her and i'm intrigued to see what happens to them because i want them together. Willie is Frank Lucas from American Gangster. They're the bad guy, but you can't help but sympathize with them and root for them.
-Kelsey Laning
I definitely think that Sapo is the most inriguing character. I thoroughly enjoy his outlook on life as it is by far the most suitable for life in Spanish Harlem. His "who cares" and "tough guy" mentality are both effective and at the same time entertaining. The secret knowledge that he seems to have concerning Bodega's project has given him a suspicious quality that helps him develop in the eyes of the reader. We know that he is not the best person, but I think he is hiding something, whether it is good or bad makes Sapo a more intriguing and impactful character. In a way I also think that Bodega is using Chino. It's as though Sapo is in on the plan just for his connections with Chino, who has connections with Vera. (as confusing as that may sound)
-Joe D
I would have to say my favorite character so far is Sapo. I just find him extremely interesting and I really want to know more about how he became involved in everything with Bodega. I also am really intrigued by the relationship he has with Julio, and how he is so easily able to manipulate him by bringing up their childhood experiences. It's incredibly interesting to me that Sapo would constantly acknowledge Julio as his best friend, his "pana", and so constantly use and manipulate him. Also, of course, it says a lot about Julio. It says a lot about both of them and kind of the values of their culture, in that they value the longevity of friendship over a lot of other things. I also enjoy that there's no bullshit (am I allowed to say that?) about him; I feel like he tells it like it is and I like that he's so "street."
I'm also intrigued by Blanca, and the things she stands for, and once again, her relationship with Julio. There is such an interesting dynamic between them in that Blanca values her religion over all else and Julio values his past friendships and connections over everything else. These two things and the way they constantly clash and create tension within Julio and Blanca's relationship.
--Jillian Pellegrini
I liked Sapo the most so far. I like how he's himself in any situation and that he's tough and strong. I like the way he carries himself, acting the same towards everyone and doing little things that are interesting. He's kind of independent, but I like his bond with Chino where they can help eachother. Also I find it interesting that Sapo goes into biting during his fights. I think it's interesting because it shows he can be a no holds bar kind of guy, and may put it all on the line when he needs to.
Eric Wu
I think that the most interesting character so far is Sapo. He has a mystery to him that we don't really know yet. Sapo is a crappy drug dealer, yet rides a BMW. He is either a criminal or a pana. He is obviously troubled but it is still a kind human-being, always getting his friends backs, no matter what. I found the story about his fight with his English teacher very interesting. It gave good insight to his past. For the most part, Sapo doesn't stir up fights, but he has no fear of them. I would like to find out more about his very early childhood and what caused his downfall.
~Jacob Burnstein
I am going to agree with Victoria and Ms. Coppens on this one and say that Blanca is the most intriging character. She seems to be the voice of reason and truly wants what is best for Julio. SHe has been able to see right through Sapo from the start and could tell that he would get into trouble and bring her husband down with him. She is extremly strong for putting up with Chino's lies while he went to sneek off with Sapo and participate in shady business. Blanca is definatly the one innocent and pure character like Ms. Coppens said, and she is the positive part of the story. She gives the readers a sense of hope that maybe Chino will listen to his wife and stay away from Bodega!
~Lauren Bowker
I have found that Blanca is the most interesting so far. She appears to be worlds apart from what is happening in her neighborhood. She sees it every day and recognizes it, yet she is inspired enough to rise above it and refuses to accept her situation. Blanca's efforts to improve her own life, as well as the lives of her husband and child, is very different from characters such as Sapo, who are worried only about themselves and making money. It will be interesting to see how she develops and how the birth of her child changes her (if that even happens in this novel). I find Blanca especially interesting because of her devotion to her church and her ability to separate herself from the illegal world around her.
Kelley S.
Definitely going to agree with what people have been saying about Blanca being the most interesting character. I feel like, although my life is nothing like hers, I can somewhat relate to her. She seems very personable, down to earth, and is definitely someone that a person can look up to in the sense that she leads a postive, healthy, lifestyle. I like the fact that she brings out the good in her husband, Chino. I feel that Chino, although he often gets mixed up with the wrong crowd, is a decent person. I admire that she remains religious, positive (for the most part), and stays true to herself despite the crazy world around her. I think she'll be a great mother!
--Laura Hundley
I like Blanca too, as many have said, but to be a devil's advocate I think she definately has some flaws. Despite her coming pregnancy and moral values, I think it is somewhat unreasonable for her to expect Chino to completely disassociate with his friends. She should have been able to trust him enough to use good judgement himself, instead of acting as if she was his mother.
After finishing the book, I think I might consider Nazario to be the most intriguing. He seemed to have such deceptive ways of manipulating situations throughout the story, and at the end it's revealed his goal the whole time had been to carry out a manipulation of a much larger scale. The coldness of his final actions, and descriptions of him throughout give him such a feeling of evilness! To relate it way back--he's a "Cathy character" in a different environment.
-Carolyn Maiorana
Wow- great connection to way back, Carolyn. I think they're both described as having snake like eyes and dispositions. Great call.
And Jill, the language is fine. I agree.
-Ms. Coppens
Personally i find Nene the most interesting. I feel that he has had a very interesting past that has sent him on a time warp. I love how he uses lyrics in his speach, and that one characteristic has made he laugh out loud several times. Although he has a smaller role in the story i think that Nene is fantastic.
-Matthew Fitch
After finishing the book I have to say that I am the most intested in Vera. How can someone shoot her own husband who loved her and came up to New York because he thought she was in trouble just to be with another guy? I think that an entire other book about her life would be a very good read. Everything that happened in the novel happened because of Vera, and yet we as readers do not know very much about her at all.
-Shannon Langella
Once again, I still find Sapo the most intriguing. He bites in scraps and has no regard for other people's feelings when he speaks. In essence he speaks his mind and has the "street cred" to back it up. I agree with Jill because I believe Sapo is able to manipulate Chino in almost any situation. However, I think this is because for Chino's whole life Sapo has had his back no matter what happens, and this is very important in Spanish Harlem because without someone tough to back you up, you're toast.
Eric Leone
I think, in the end, Bodega seems the most interesting. At first, he seems all tough and mighty, and that is what he wants everyone to percieve him as, but underneath the manly facade, he is really a gushy guy. He so badly wants to be with Vera, and his whole life is driven by this lost love, yet, he only allows Chino to see this side of him, and only because Chino is the only person who can help him pursue Vera.
~Alyssa
All considered, I think it comes to no surprise that the title man of the novel, Willie Bodega, is the most interesting character. As big as a drug lord as they come, Bodega stands on top of Spanish Harlem with the money to prove it. Glory aside, the fact that he is able to lead essentially an 'amry' (in the words of Nazario) by his side and conduct a neighborhood to a better life. He continually empowers Spanish Harlem with his visions of running East Harlem through crime, and one day becoming a man politicians recognize as a force to be reckoned with. This is why Bodega rules Harlem and I find him to be the intriguing character he was lead up to be.
putnam
After finishing the novel, I find Bodega the most interesting. It's not his illegal and controversial lifestyle that make me like him, but his attitude and outlook upon life. With the power that he had he could have easily rid the city of all who threatened him (or the ones known to threaten him). Instead he did what was in the end right. He can not be blamed for Vera's Miami husband's death since he had no intention of the killing and in the end he still took the blame. Some might have not benefitied from his action but he set Spanish Harlem up for success and a better future. In the end, it was his get the job done mentality that made him my favorite. Unlike some of the other characters, he set out to accomplish his goals and did not jsut hope that some day he would be successful.
-Joe D
At the beginning of the book i was not drawn to the chracter of Sapo, but now that i have finished i would have to say he is my favorite. Sapo is a character that truely symbolizes the idea of brotherhood and the bond that two people can have. Throughout the story Sapo and Chino are panas and because of this they can rely on each other for almost anything even if Sapo wants Chino to hold on to his drugs. i think Sapo is themost important charcter because he stands for something truely important in everyone's lives friendship
Matthew fitch
I find Sapo to be the most interesting character thus far. Although he may come across as rude and inconsiderate, that is what makes him so interesting. He is his own man. In JR High it was only he who was the same around Blanca and did not care that she beautiful or a church girl. Sapo was the same around everyone. He was probably the best example of someone being themselves no matter what.
-Will
***Spoilers***
I find Nazario an interesting character because of how much the story revolves around him but so little is actually mentioned about him. The story progresses not because of Bodega's Dreams, but because of Nazario's manipulation to pursue Bodega. The reader, as well as many minor characters in the novel, find Nazario respectable, albeit shady. However, it is the ability to make both Julio and readers to trust in him, like in the apartment fire.
that was bowen again
By the end of the novel it is apparent that Nazario is much more interesting than he was through the first 180 pages. He was just Bodega's partner who had a degree in law. Now he is the master puppeteer who played everyone. I was surprised that he was able to fool Sapo because Sapo always seemed to know more than Bodega did.
--Scott Hagen
As the novel worn on, it became apparent that Nazario was the most interesting character. He was a street savy lawyer who knew how to get things done. My favorite example of this was when he first met Bodega and he told him to price the hot dogs at a certain price, and to give away the heroine for free, so he would only get charged with possession, and not intent to distribute. Also he was clearly interesting because he was the mastermind behind Bodega's dream, he got everything taken care of except the money which Bodega handled. Nazario found away to side step every obstacle, including Bodega. He planned from the beginning to kill Bodega so he could be with Vera, and he would have gotten clean away with it if Negra hadn't informed Chino.
-Will
So far I would have to say that Julio is the most interesting character. He has a very different outlook on life than others. He lives a pretty good life, but acts all bad-ass on the side with Sapo. When he was younger, he was just looking for a fight so that he could get his name, Chino. Chino can get very tied up in decisions based on what is right and what is easier. He has kept Sapo as a friend for life even though his wife does not approve of Sapo or what Sapo does. It is almost as if Chino lives a double life, but it seems like with all that he does, he is out for the best for everybody.
Jenna Williams
I think my opinion changed from who I thought was the most interesting character half way and now. I must say Vera was the most interesting character. Although she was sick of her husband, and was going to kill her, there was something inside me that could sense some innocence in her. After I found out about her and Nazario's plan, I realized Vera was just playing with people the whole time, and I took it personal. After feeling bad for Vera throughout the story, I felt like she stabbed me right in the back by loving Nazario and her part in the plan to kill Bodega. I mean come on.
-Eric H
I hated Veronica, which is what makes her so interesting. She's 10
times worse than Daisy just because she had such twisted morals and I cant even imagine what her though process was throughout this. I realize people do crazy things for love, but she was an absurd character with messed up priorities. As much as I hated her, I have to admit, the story wouldnt be as interesting without her distinct personality.
-Kelsey Laning
My favorite character is still Sapo, up til now he's always been consisten in everything he does, and that's why I love his character. He's always himself, people don't affect him, he stands for himself, believes in himself and always trusts in himself. He's confident, even cocky in a way, but the way he talks to Chino, and others the way it's always the same is admirable in a way because he's alwasy himself and that's why he's my favorite character. I also really like Nazario, because I was convinced that he was a good guy til the end, so his deception was truly and interesting addition to the book.
Eric Wu
i think that the characters that are explained the least prove to be the most interesting. take nene for example. His singing really makes one wonder how he got to be this way. i don't think that it's just to amuse himself, nor do i think its just because hes stupid. I think that something happened to him to make him that way. Also, i have "hot town, summer in the city" stuck in my head, and those are the only words i know from that song.
- Cameron
willie is also an interesting character. he isn't what you think of when you think of your classic mob boss, kingpin, etc. He didn't really seem intimidating at all, even before the whole Vera business. His underlings talk back to him, and when Chino refuses his offer, he feels bad. There are no consequences at all. Even besides Vera and Nazario, it seems like people play him more than the other way around, which seems counterintuitive. It describes how he got to be where he is, but even so i can;t see how he got so high up with his skill at reading people. I find it hard to beleive that Nazario could play him for THAT long. he has to have something that makes him good at what he does. I just cant see what it is.
-Cameron
Originally, I felt like Blanca was one of the most interesting characters. However, after reading more, my attention was definitely focused on Nazario instead. I never really expected that Nazario was such a clever and intelligent, yet evil, mastermind. He worked behind the scenes... he's pretty shady. Although he was working for Bodega, really he had all the power in that he was scheming all along. I loved that a character with more of a minor role wound up being the character that altered the ending of the book.
--Laura Hundley
Nazario is someone i really like now. When you first heard of him you thought of him being shady and someone who was up to no good. Now that i see he's all for helping people, and when the fire ruined chino and blanca's apartment along with everyone else living there he was willing and more than happy to give the people a new home.
- kristen scopetski
I would have to say that my most favorite character is Sapo. He is truly a comical guy, yet he still portrays that "tough guy", "nothing can get past me", "insensitive" side. When he is doing drugs, committing felonies, and walking around with quite an ego, he still creates an unpredictable feeling inside the readers mind. He was enjoyable because he was a threat to the community, and quite a disgrace to Blanca, Chino's wife. The trouble that he causes kept me interested and made me laugh. Inside he contains a secretive quality, nor good nor bad, that allows him to obtain the title of an intriguing and suspenseful character.
-brooke kemper
After finishing the novel, I find it even harder to pick the most interesting character. I agree with Kelsey in that the novel would not be the same without crazy Vera. She definetly added a lot of excitement towards the end of the novel which made it even more enjoyable to read. I would not have guessed that she slept around with all of these guys.
However, from the beggining of the novel, I still agree that Chino is the most interesting character. It just makes me laugh how he is conviniently present at most of the drastic scenes in the novel such as Vera killing John Vidal and the police arresting Naziro, Vera, and Nene. He's just everywhere at the right time and always says the right thing, even if someone doesn't tell him to say it. I think that throughout the novel he developed a lot as a character and realized what is important in life, such as Blanca and life. He's just so intersting in the decisions he makes and how he's associated with every character in the novel. He also seems so stressed out in the end, but thats what he gets for being mr. popular. The novel wouldn't have been the same without Chino as the narrator and one of the most important characters.
~Maryam Semenov
By the end of the book, my favorite character was Nazario. Although he played a minor and untrustworthy character in the beginning of the book, he portrayed a more accepting role by the end. He came off as being very suspicious and "shady" as Scopes said, but it is clear that he ends up helping people. One of the most distinct examples of this is when the fire burns Blanca's and Chino's apartment down. Nazario and the people living there were more than welcome to help and serve as assistance to give the people who lost their homes a new place to live. He has a great deal of power that is seen through his personality.
-brooke kemper
i LOVE Nene. i dont know how you couldn't love Nene (although the other characters seem to get annoyed with him sometimes). I think its absolutely brilliant that he speaks in lyrics... i mean... who DOES that? but he's such a funny character because everyone else in the book is all concerned with drugs and love and money and fights and living in SPANISH HARLEM... and Nene is just like "oh what a beautiful mornin'!" He's the comic releif that the book needs. And i agree with what carolyn said about him being the most human, because i think that, even though he's supposedly not very bright, he seems to be very loyal and light hearted. He reminds me so much of Lennie from Of Mice and Men (i'm taking a trip down memory lane to freshman year): this massive, hefty man, who's not very bright and just like "lalala!" about life.
he's great.
-Shay
Favorite character, still Chino
Most intriuging character, Nazario
man, i hope Nazario rots in prison, what he did was just horrible, the worst kind of treason, and all of Spanish Harlem has to pay for it, like, its just wrong, but i dont think what is intriguing about him is the fact that hi could mastermind it all, its that he can live with himself, and that he can still think its for the best. thats what intrigues me, i want to know how Nazario feels about the man and his son who show up at the end of the book searching in vain for Bodega.
i would also like to add that anytime i was reading about Nene, i would picture John Malkovich (he was lenny in Of Mice and Men), EVEN THOUGH i knew he was supposed to be hispanic.
-Shay
After finishing the novel, I still find Blanca to be very interesting, especially because of her strength. However, I found Nene to be fascinating at the end of the novel because of the exact opposite reason. When he was taken away by the cops, it didn't matter that he was being arrested or that the future of the whole operation had crumbled, he was just busy in his sorrow over Bodega. On page 209 Chino remarks, "I only felt for Nene. He kept crying because his cousin was dead. I felt sad for him and knew he had no idea what had happened. Nene had just done what he had been told. All he wanted was his cousin back."
While it'd likely that from Chino's perspective the view is a little warped, but this passage still makes me feel for Nene. He seemed more human than he had at any earlier point in the novel, when he was nothing more than a brutish jukebox. Especially when Chino realized that he had been the one who had killed Bodega, Nene was a brainless hitman whose only real talent was that he could quote some pretty fantastic music. But after his cousin died, it became clear that Nene was more than he seemed, and though he could murder in cold blood, he was still capable of emotion.
-Christina
In the first half of the novel, I found that Sapo was a very interesting character. His "I don't give a f*$# what you think of me" attitude was shy in no way. I admired his individuality and how he looked out for his friend Chino. While reading, I felt intrigued to hear of the next crazy story that would pop up with Sapo in the leading roll!
-Krystle D.
Contrary to what I posted earlier, by the end of the novel I was sick of Sapo. I found him to be very annoying and very demanding. I felt that he abused his friendship with Chino in thinking that just becuase they were friends for so long he could jepordize Chino's relationship with his wife so that Sapo could just hide some of his crap. He just irratated me so much and I found myself not paying too close attention to scene's he was in because I found him so annoying.
-Krystle D.
I found Sapo to be a very interesting character. He seems like such a lost soul, one who does not truly understand their reasons for living. He seems to just hide behind others, working the whole time, unable to pick his own future.
Though, while in school, Sapo is the rebellious child that refuses to do homework or even learn, he really only has one friend: Chino. After Chino gets married to Blanca, and he is unable to spend as much time with Sapo, always unwilling to put himself into Sapo's dirty work, Sapo must find another person to rely on; this is where Bodega steps in. His tough guy act can be deceiving, making a single character feel as though you're reading about two different people.
Sapo's character, in general, is just peculier. That whole biting flesh part is quite abnormal.
How could I not say Nazzario was the most interesting character. I would be lying if I said I saw that coming. It is interesting to know that Nazzario seemingly lived and based his life on Bodega, only to kill him in the end. All this time he was working for Bodega, he was really working against him. He spoke of creating a better race of latinos that would escape their stereotypical ways, but in the end we find out that he is no better than a heartless criminal.
~Jacob B
Blanca is still my favorite character mostly because she never changed. Her position and opinions on the business Sapo and Bodega ended up doing never changed. She was never fake in order to get others to like her. She never sensored herself on what she felt. For example she would always tell Chino how she felt about Sapo and how she thought he was a terrible influence and she would tell him this right in front of Sapo. This led to many disagreements between Blanca and Sapo however Blanca always stood by her feelings and would speak her mind in order to get Chino to stay away from them. In the end this ultimately worked because Chino does make the decision that Blanca is what is important in his life.
I must agree with shay on the fact that Nene is a very likable character and brings some comedy in a heavy time. Nene is definatly the most unique characters and because of his strange behaviors, he is immediatly intriguing
~Lauren Bowker
I find Willie Bodega to be the most interesting character, mostly because his character is so mysterious and slowy revealed. You never really get one full description of him, you just find out about him through Chino's meeting with him and the brief bits of information that Sapo gives about him.
At first all you find out about him for a couple of chapters is that he changed Chino's life, and that he "...would go down as a representation of all the ugliness in Spanish Harlem and also all the good it was capable of being." (14)
-Rhian
Blanca became one of my favorite charcters only after the part where Chino and her argued about her religion and how the Bible versus the way she wanted to be treated contradicted each other. When Chino brought this point up, about how the Bible tells of how the men always do whatever they want without informing their women, is contracting the way she wants to live, with Chino telling her everything that goes on. Chino questions which way is actually correct, because he knows the right thing to do is tell her but he doesn't want her to be mad that he's not following the Bible. Ultimately resulting in a lose-lose situation for Chino. After trying to defend her faith, pretty unsuccessfully, is Blanca seen as almost a human. I felt as though with Blanca always described as being perfect and beautiful, it was a nice twist having her realize she might be wrong in this case. I feel like she always blames Chino for everything, and then Chino points out that he's only trying to do what she wants him to do, with the fault ultimately being aimed back at her. To make her character more realistic, Blanca needed something to be wrong with her-it's human to make mistakes and Quinonez needed to show that.
So at first I had said by favorite character was Nene, but now I am thinking that the most intriguing character would have to be Vera. When I read about her telling all her friends that she donated to the school, but she knew all along that someone had donated for her. I thought it was interesting that as soon as she saw Bodega she got just as nervous to see him, as he was to see her. Just the fact that she changed her name to Vera, from Veronica, is interesting. Also the fact that she is willling to go anywhere with Bodega and even admits that she doesn't love her current husband (exactly as Bodega suspected) makes me curious about her. I sort of think she is just after money still and that all of Bodega's expensive things, make him more lovable to her.
- Katie C
In the beginning I thought that Willie Bodega was the most interesting character, but at the end I thought that Blanca was more interesting. I found her character to be very complex and displays how many people have trouble with their heritage and their religion. Even through her nickname you can see that although she is Spanish she has a lot of qualities that are "white". She is trying to better her life and she thinks she can do this by blending in more with the white culture, even though at the beginning she appears to be upset with Vera for doing just that.
Blanca's religion and beliefs are the basis of many of her qualities, and also of her troubles. Often she does not want Chino to do things, and she does not do things because she is worried about what the people from her church will think. This concern about what others think can also be related to how she is very "white" for a Spanish person, because she is always worried about how others see her and if she is doing the right thing in order to fit into their society.
-Rhian
i also think that Nazario is a pretty complex character and he really intrigues me. He's described as a "chameleon" on page 98 and thats such a perfect word for him because he seriously knows how to manipulate people. He's also very mysterious. Victoria had a quote, also from page 98, that described his eyes as "black holes, nothing could escape them, not even light, as if he could read your mind." and Quinonez really has a great way to elaborating on the mystery that lies beneath those eyes. and who knew that the mystery was that he was manipulating Bodega to get Vera? thats the ultimate manipulation, to be able to use the person he's working for to get what that person wants.... (did that make sense?) And how cold he could be (stabbing his friend in the back and burning down people's houses anyone?). Zenya brought up a great quote about how he "smiled that cold smile" and you could really feel it.
-Shay
I think that I am going to have to stick with Chino. I feel that he is a very well-developed character and is really set out to live the best life possible. He really makes an attempt to live a healthy life and when he feels that he has made somebody mad he will make it up to them. One example of this is when he gets into a fight with Blanca over her religion, he later goes to church with her, because he knows that this will please her, and he wants her to be happy. He tries to keep himself out of trouble and do what is best for him and those around him.
Jenna Williams
I found Vera's character the most interesting, simply because she appears to me to be the most twisted character in the story. She kills two men who love her and who would do anything for her. Saying that she is selfish would be an anemic understatement. Out of all the characters I find her the most unlikable. (However, Nazario is a close second.) She contributes nothing positive to anybody in her life. She was only looking out for herself, which is so different from the rest of the community which sticks together and covers up for each other.
-Kelley S.
As the plot moved farther on, I became really intrigued by Blanca and her ability to stay so... pure amidst everything. Chino just keeps getting pulled deeper and deeper into this web of lies and crime and it obviously effects Blanca because of their marriage, but she still remains so true to her religion and her devotion to God. Despite being married to Chino and having and sister like Negra, an aunt like Vera, she was never involved (at least never directly) in anything to do with Bodega, and that was all by choice. I admire her perseverance in her faith and her ability to rise above the crime that goes on in her community.
--Jillian Pellegrini
One of the characters i find most interesting is Chino. It seems as though he has a stable life. He has finally cleaned himself up. He's not getting in fights everyday like he was back in high school, he's got a beautiful wife BLanca, and i find it very interesting how Sapo, one of his closest friends, tries to pull him into this drug world where Chino can only get in trouble and ruin the lives of both himself, and his pregnant wife. Further more, i was always intrigued by Chino's background story, having always wanted a nickname in order to define who he was. But in the end, looking cool in high school isn't the point of school, and i find it interesting how Chino could never really figure that out.
in regards to the second half the book, i felt that all the characters were very interesting, especially because as more got introduced, and the longer the story went on, the deeper the history and backgrounds of each character went.
However, Blanca sort of interested me by the end because it seemed like she continuosly cause a lot of tension between her and Chino and his new established life style, more so than in the beginning. Race and her Spanish "whiteness" becomes prominent in the story, and Blanca causes problems with her strict, "white culture attitude." It interests me that as the story goes on, she doesn't become any more open minded, but in the same sense, i can understand because she doesn't want her life, nor Chino's to go down the toilet.
Post a Comment