Why does Esperanza feel angry when Sally decides to kiss the boys?

• A. She is jealous of their friendship
• B. She feels it is morally wrong
• C. She wishes to participate in the act
• D. She is afraid of the boys

Answer: (B)

Esperanza's feelings of anger towards Sally's decision to kiss the boys stem from a sense of betrayal and a conflict over what she perceives as the loss of their friendship and shared experiences. She feels that Sally is prioritizing the approval of boys over their relationship, leading to feelings of anger and disappointment rather than outright jealousy or moral judgment.

Choosing to engage in an act that appears superficial or driven by societal expectations causes Esperanza distress because she values deeper connections, particularly in contrast to her own feelings of isolation and longing for belonging. Thus, her anger is not directly about moral righteousness but rather about the emotional disconnect created by Sally's actions.

While jealousy and a desire to participate do play a role, her anger is more nuanced and tied to the dynamics of their friendship. Fear is also not a primary motivator for her reactions; instead, it's the realization that their bond is shifting in a way that she cannot control or fully comprehend. Therefore, the correct understanding of Esperanza's reaction lies in how she grapples with her expectations of friendship against the backdrop of burgeoning adolescent relationships.