Any Small Goodness

The motif of food appears consistently throughout the novel. The Rodriguez family mostly cooks traditional Mexican dishes—from chilaquiles to chiles rellenos to tamales—and shuns anything lacking taste. Abuelita opposes “false foods,” signaling a deep connection to food and emphasizing the family’s standard of authenticity. Indeed, the Rodriguez family seems to express themselves most sincerely through food. Many times, their creations reflect unspoken emotion, establishing a method of identity that transcends conversation. For instance, after learning of Ms. Cloud’s dismissal, the entire family is in an uproar, incensed that the school district should overlook Ms. Cloud’s many contributions. Mami does not speak but registers her anger another way: She cooks a mole, a chili pepper sauce that Arturo fittingly describes as “complicated and dangerously spicy” (75). Though Mami is typically unassuming, cooking has allowed her to communicate anger—a chaotic, restless emotion that only the spiciness of mole can capture.

Food also helps bridge cultural divides within the barrio, creating a more unified community and underscoring the theme of Embracing a Multicultural Identity. When Coach Tree proves himself a dedicated, responsible teacher, Abuelita decides to make him chiles rellenos. Arriving at the school, Abuelita approaches Coach Tree eagerly: “I am happy to meet.