Character Analysis

Roberto is Francisco's big brother, and a majorly supportive big brother at that. He's the oldest sibling in his family, so he's always looking out for everyone, Francisco included, and he works hard at school and in the fields. Plus when he's in high school he gets a job as a janitor that he's supper excited about.

What we seriously love about Roberto though, is what a sweet guy he can be. Francisco might've had the worst day ever, but it seems like Roberto will always be there to help his little bro out. So when Francisco has disappointed his parents with the whole babysitting debacle, Roberto steps in with one simple move:

Roberto put his arm around me and nodded his head. (2.12)

Francisco has been feeling pretty lonely while his family was picking cotton together, but Roberto turns that frown upside-down. Without saying a single word here, Roberto shows Francisco that he understands how he feels and lets him know that he is loved. Given how often they move around, the kindness and steadfastness he shows Francisco seem like they're probably essential to his happiness. Not having Roberto around would makes for a pretty lonely childhood.

Are there times when Roberto isn't as supportive? How do those moments impact his character?