The Bean Trees Study Guide

The Bean Trees Study Guide Chapters 7 & 8 (pp. 90-130)

Vocabulary: Write definitions below, using context clues (see pages). berating (p.99) –

perturbed (p.107) –

deprivation (p.122) –

Discussion Questions: Write complete sentence answers below each question.

1. Who are Estevan and Esperanza? Where are they from?

2. What comparison does Lou Ann make between Estevan and Angel?

3. What does Taylor mean, “It seemed to me that Turtle had to take practically everything on faith”?

4. How do you know that Lou Ann suffers from a very low self-esteem?

5. Who are Edna Poppy and Virgie Mae Parsons? Which is the more outspoken of the two?

6. Based on Mattie’s TV appearance, what can you conclude about Mattie’s Spanish speaking “visitors”? 7. What does Mattie say happens to illegal immigrants who are sent back home?

8. What is the significance of Estevan’s parable (story) on pages 107 and 108?

9. What disturbing news does Edna bring to Lou Ann in the park? What does Lou Ann do as a result?

10. Where do you think Mattie goes when she tells Taylor she is going birdwatching?

11. What does Dr. Pelinowsky’s exam reveal about Turtle?

Prediction: Before you read the next chapter, make a prediction about what might happen based on the information you have read so far. DO NOT give “yes” or “no” answer only – EXPLAIN your reasoning.

12. What will Estevan tell Taylor about his and Esperanza’s life in Guatemala?

Summary: Write a summary below of the main events for Chapters 7 & 8, telling what has been happening to Taylor, Turtle, and Lou Ann. Recall some of the new people in their lives.