La Linea

Abuelita warns Miguel he can be too hard on people, especially Elena. What does she mean? Do you think she is right? Why or why not? Give evidence from the text to support your opinion.

Describe the relationship between Miguel and Elena at the beginning of the novel. How do they act toward each other? How does their relationship change during their journey? What events prompt this change? How do Miguel and Elena feel about each other at the novel’s end?

Compare and contrast Miguel’s relationship with Papá to Elena’s relationship with Mamá. How does Miguel feel toward Papá? Why does he feel this way? Does Elena feel the same way toward Mamá? Discuss.

Explain why both Miguel and Elena want to go north so badly. Is there more than one reason? How do they feel about the north once they get there? Do they think their journey was worth it? Why or why not? Support your answer.

La Línea is a coming-of-age narrative. Describe how Miguel changes over the course of the novel. What does Miguel learn about himself and life in general?

Describe some of the obstacles Miguel, Elena, and Javi encounter on their journey north. How do the characters face each challenge? In what ways do Miguel, Elena, and Javi show courage and determination?

Characterize Javi’s personality. Why does Miguel initially think Javi would be a burden to him? How does Miguel’s opinion of Javi change? Is there a difference between Javi’s relationship with Miguel and Javi’s relationship with Elena? Support your opinion with evidence from the text.

After reaching the north, Elena keeps her hair short for a long time to help her remember “los sacrificios people make for each other” (123). Which characters in the novel sacrifice something for another person? Consider Miguel, Javi, Papá and Mamá, Elena, Abuelita, and Moisés. What is the effect of their sacrifices?