The name is important because it gives a sense of place. Mango Street is where the story unfolds. It's a place full of characters, each with their own stories. The house on this street is like a hub for Esperanza's observations and experiences. It's a simple name that gives a very specific and vivid setting for the story.
Yes, it is based on real experiences. Sandra Cisneros drew from her own life growing up in a Latino neighborhood. The vignettes in the book are often rooted in the real people, places, and situations she encountered, though it's also a work of fiction that weaves these real elements together in a creative and literary way.
It's not a true story. The book uses fictional characters and situations to convey deeper messages and emotions. It's more of a literary creation than a factual account.
The story in 'The House on Mango Street' is told by Esperanza. She is a young Latina girl who shares her experiences, dreams, and observations about life in her neighborhood on Mango Street.