Falling Short

The book alternates between Marco’s and Isaac’s first-person points of view. How does this shifting of perspectives allow Cisneros to juxtapose the boys’ perspectives to create dramatic irony, humor, and in-depth characterizations? Use specific examples from the text to support your answer.

After his car accident, Isaac’s father shows that he believes in second chances, making it clear to his son that mistakes are okay, as long as you learn and improve from them. Isaac’s grandmother, however, believes that opportunities are often limited to only one chance. How do the events of the story reflect these conflicting beliefs? Does the narrative support one of these perspectives more strongly?

Both Marco’s and Isaac’s fathers have character flaws that negatively impact their roles as parents. How do the redeeming qualities of Marco’s father compare to those of Manuel Castillo? Consider the strengths and weaknesses to evaluate their overall effectiveness as fathers, and the ways Cisneros highlights they must improve.