This book is about a young girl named Esperanza and her mother Ramona. Esperanza grew up in a town in Mexico. Her family was the richest in the town simply because her father owned a huge ranch. Her life dramatically changes when one night her father doesnt return home. They found out later that night that he was killed by bandits. One of Esperanza's evil uncles asks Ramona to marry him. She rejects his offer and he tells her she will regret it. That very same night while everyone was sleeping the house caught on fire (by her uncles). Everyone was safe. Then Ramona told Luis (esperanzas evil uncle) that she would marry him. Then early the next morning her and Esperanza run away to California to become field workers. Esperanza isnt ready for all the hard labor & financial struggles because she is used to being waited on hand and foot. When her mother gets sick Esperanza has to find a way to overcome these difficult circumstances because her and her mamas life depend on it.