Parrot
in the Oven: Mi Vida, Victor Martinez, HarperTrophy, 1996.
Parrot
in the Oven: Mi Vida chronicles the life of Manuel “Manny” Hernandez, a
Mexican-American boy growing up in California. Each chapter features a
different story or memory to help readers understand the hardships Manny faces
on a daily basis. In addition to living in a poverty stricken area, Manny is
forced to deal with his alcoholic and abusive father, his mother’s obsessive
tendencies, his sister’s rebellious behavior, and his brother’s lack of
motivation. He continuously struggles with the decision to succumb to or
overcome the circumstances of his life.
The novel contains many themes and
ideas that are relevant to middle school kids today. Manny’s struggles with his
home life and peer pressure are things many adolescents can relate to. His
journey to discover himself and form his own identity highlight other issues
students of this age are likely experiencing. This novel deals with a lot of
culture and discrimination, which can be a good discussion topics. Martinez’s use
of rich figurative language can be included in conversations and lessons as
well.
Parrot
in the Oven is definitely teachable. The language is simple and though
there are the occasional Spanish words and phrases, it is not unmanageable. Because there
isn’t much of a plot, the chapters can be taught separately from the whole
novel.
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