With Fire On High
​
Elizabeth Acevedo
Synopsis
The story follows the tale of Emoni Santiago, a high school senior and single mother with a passion for cooking. Through the story she faces challenges with balancing her responsibilities as a mother, student, and aspiring chef. The novel explores themes of identity, family, and the pursuit of dreams. Emoni navigates her way through culinary school and discovers her own voice, while also dealing with the complexities of teenage life and motherhood. The book is celebrated for its rich portrayal of Afro-Latinx culture and its emphasis on the power of pursuing one's passions.
Lessons and Themes
Societal Impacts
1. Discuss the role of family in the story. How does Emoni's relationship with her daughter, Abuela, and others shape her character and decisions?
2. Consider the challenges and barriers Emoni faces as a young woman of color pursuing her dreams. How does the novel address issues of race, gender, and socio-economic status?
Literary Elements and Style
1. Reflect on the use of language and narrative style in the novel. How does the author's choice of writing style contribute to the overall storytelling experience?
2. Discuss the significance of the title, "With the Fire on High." How does this phrase capture the essence of Emoni's character and journey?
Assignment Ideas
Character Analysis Paper:
Choose a central character from the book (e.g., Emoni, Abuela, Chef Ayden) and conduct a detailed character analysis. Explore their motivations, growth throughout the story, and the impact they have on the narrative.
Culinary Exploration Project:
Create a culinary project inspired by the dishes mentioned in the book. Research and prepare recipes that are significant to the story, and present them along with a written reflection on how each dish relates to key moments or themes in the novel.