Discuss the role of supernatural beliefs in the book. Do Teresa and Alicia’s attitudes toward the supernatural align with their characters? Does the so-called supernatural incident in Ponce’s house drive them apart or bring them together? Why do you think Alicia reacts the way she does to the so-called visit from the spirit?

What role do food and drink play in the story? Is cuisine intended to make the story more realistic and detailed, or is it symbolic?

Discuss the impact of societal beauty standards on Alicia and Teresa. How do they each view and react to these expectations? Use evidence from the text to illustrate their attitudes toward beauty.