Multicultual Literature for the Classroom-9th Grade: Under the Feet of Jesus

By: Helena Maria Viramontes

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Under the Feet of Jesus tells the story of Hispanic migrant workers. Estrella and her family are constantly moving to follow the harvest seasons. Petra, her mother sees her daughter growing up faster than she wants her to. Estrella works hard to help take care of her family and feed her siblings. They struggle through poverty as they look for ways of survival. The family sacrifices a lot as all their time is spent working in the fields. They overcome obstacles such as sickness from the pesticides, medical bills, fights, pregnancy, and stealing for food. Religion is used throughout the story to show that their beliefs gave them strength, but as they go through trials Estrella and Petra start to lose faith. This importance of teaching this book is to bring awareness to students of the trials that others have to go through. It teaches students to be aware of other situations instead of just their own experiences. Having a story where students can understand what the characters are thinking and experiencing, helps them to have a deeper understanding of the worker's situations. They hear about the backgrounds and realistic experiences of migrant workers. Students will learn to appreciate the lives that they have. They will start to understand that not everyone is exposed to an education and a lifestyle where they do not have to worry about finances. Some children have to complete hard labor in order to help their families. The story is an example of how big changes and certain circumstances can cause children to grow up fast. I also chose this book because it shows the students a different writing style. Viramontes writes with many similes and metaphors. Her writing style grabs attention from the reader and requires focus to pick up the meaning of her words. By teaching the authors background, the students will be exposed to other examples of her style of writing and her focus on working class Latinos. Have a class discussion on how different writing styles affect the literature. This allows them to think about their writing style and other authors.

Problems that may come up When Teaching Under the Feet of Jesus

Since the writing is not as direct with meaning, it may be harder for students to understand the plot and different themes of the story. The students may have to read over certain sections multiple times. To make sure the students understand what is happening during the story, the teacher should have this book be discussed and read together in class. By having worksheets that break down certain sections in the story, the students will have a better understanding of events. Class discussions will also help students to share their ideas of what is happening and point out certain pieces that others may have not understood or missed. Reading in class, gives the students the opportunity to ask questions and talk to their classmates. This story requires focus when reading to catch all the hidden meanings and to understand the metaphors.