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Ty Morris

College 1
Authors Note - Chapter 1 RRJ
1.

The book starts with an Authors Note that is quite humorous and descriptive. The initial

setting is the authors sixth grade class room, a class that appears to be quite divided racially but
united at the same time through the things that children enjoy. Some of the key characters are the
narrator, Aurora, and the teacher. It is the interaction between the narrator and Aurora that first
create an emphasis on the authors own reflection on race and being Mexican, and his selfdiscovery on the matter by rejecting a dance with her. He regrets this rejection and sort of
dedicates the book to her from that point on. He ends his authors note with a witty comment
about a piece of fiction being a good place for confession, illustrating the potential subject
matter that lies ahead of the reader.
2.

This reading really brought up questions of self-identity, similar to that of the video on

The Danger of a single story, which addresses an inward look at how one fits into society on
the basis of their surroundings and exposure. The narrator was obviously exposed to a
surrounding where he was taught that being Mexican, was not an entirely good thing as be
likes to point out his mixed heritage. However, the people that surround him identify him as
being so. I cant help but think of the utter confusion the narrator might have about who he is and
where he fits in.
3. In the authors note, why did Brando think that he was not Mexican?
Why couldnt Brando really dance with Aurora? Has he experienced some sort of trauma to
make him act this way?
Where might Brando fit in with the class?
4. My reading went well, but I was caught off guard at times by the Spanish English
combination, despite the fact that I speak and understand Spanish well. Its just not a usual sight
in text. I almost immediately connected this text to the Danger of a single story video. Overall,
the text was quite satirical, but meaningful so far.
2. Apology A chance to atone for a wrong. I think this is an important word because it is what
Brando feels that he owes Aurora, and ultimately ends up writing this book for.

Transparent to be easily seen through or comprehended. This is the word Brando uses to
describe the feeling one feels when rejected or blank, hurt. This is a pivotal point where he
acknowledges his wrong and later understands the error of his ways.
Confession admitting guilt. This idea of confession is very important to the author in that he
constantly references it and makes a point of pointing out that this very work is a type of
confession for him. However, he also makes very direct points that this book has created a
perfect place for him to express and confess himself.

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