How do we see Esperanza’s character changing in the beginning of this chapter ?

Although some aspects of Esperanza’s life are changing, Esperanza is also growing more certain of herself. Even though her first day alone does not go exactly as she planned, she proves herself to be more independent than anyone believed she could be. Even though she has grown up in a world of privilege, she is able to take care of two small children and run a household on her own - at a very young age.

To this end, Esperanza’s narrative voice starts to sound more like a grown woman than a child. Instead of worrying about her clothes or dolls, she focuses on the taking care of the people in her life. There was a time when getting dirty was one of Esperanza’s biggest concerns, but during the dust storm, all she is worried about is the safety of her family and friends.