Did the death of Manny's grandma ruined the plot in the story?

Do you think that the way this story portrays Mexican-American famililes is some what stereotypical? Why or why not?

Do you agree with Manny's father when he says that people are like money? Why or why not?

How is the Mexican-American culture reflected in the book?

Do you think that Manny's choice to join a gang to gain respect was a good one? Why or Why not?

Manny's family struggles with money problems. How is that significant to the story's plot?