Consider how Benitez explores the theme of Life and Death in the novel. How do the characters process these stages of life? In which ways do the stages of life link with the theme Preserving the Memories of Others?

Teaching Suggestion: This prompt invites students to recontextualize their responses from the Personal Connection prompt within the context of the novel. The cyclical and inevitable nature of Life and Death link all of the characters of the Santiago community together with a common frame of mind, However, Remedios is the true mediator, as she is not only the confidante to many in the community, but also the link to Santiago’s traditions as she maintains her connection with nature. You may wish to illustrate her role by placing Remedios’s name in the center of a word web with circles around the center representing the stages of life and death. Encourage students to consider how Remedios impacts each stage.

Use this activity to engage all types of learners, while requiring that they refer to and incorporate details from the text over the course of the activity.

Presentation: “Socioeconomic Issues in 1980s Mexico”

In this activity, students will work in groups to research and present a specific socioeconomic issue that Benitez explores in her novel.