In the beginning of The House On Mango Street Esperanza and her family have just moved to a new house on Mango Street because the pipes in their old apartment had broke. Esperanza describes how although better than their old houses their new house is not what she was hoping for. Then she goes on to describe various aspects of her family’s physical characteristics and relationships. Shortly after moving in Esperanza meets Cathy her first real friend. Cathy tells her that her family is moving in a
1. Before moving to the house on Mango street, Esperanza and her family had only lived in rental houses and apartments. Esperanza was embarrassed by her previous places of residence and did not feel a sense of “belonging” there. While living in the Mango Street house Esperanza can feel a greater sense of ownership and stability. She no longer has to share her building with other families or worry about disturbing her neighbors if she yells. The house on Mango street has a front lawn, and with it