Discuss the symbolism of roses in the novel. Why are roses so feared in Miel’s family? What might this reveal about women’s relationships with their bodies?

Discuss Aracely’s choice to keep the truth of her identity from Miel. How does her decision contribute to the novel’s theme of Family Versus Independence? Cite specific examples from the text to support your argument.

How does Anna-Marie McLemore use the motif of water to establish the novel’s theme of Transformation? Why do you think the river treated Miel and Leandro differently and transformed them in different ways?