Identity and Assimilation:
* "Accents": The central theme of the book. The Garcia girls' accents represent their cultural heritage and the pressure they face to assimilate into American society.
* "Lost": The Garcia girls' accents are not truly "lost," but rather transformed. This word highlights the complex process of acculturation and the potential loss of one's identity.
* "American": The societal ideal that the Garcia girls are striving for, often at the cost of their heritage.
* "Latin": A term used to describe their background, often with negative connotations.
* "Spanglish": A unique language that blends Spanish and English, reflecting the Garcia girls' bicultural identity.
Family and Relationships:
* "Mama": A symbol of tradition, love, and the Garcia girls' connection to their roots.
* "Papa": A more distant figure, representing the expectations placed on the family to assimilate.
* "Sisters": The strong bond between the sisters is a constant throughout the book, providing support and understanding.
* "Love": The Garcia girls' search for love and acceptance is a central theme, as they navigate complex relationships in a society that often judges them.
* "Home": A complex concept, encompassing both their childhood home in the Dominican Republic and their new home in the United States.
Social Commentary and Culture:
* "Racism": The Garcia girls face racism and prejudice due to their heritage, highlighting the challenges of being a minority in American society.
* "Stereotypes": The Garcia girls are often judged based on stereotypes about Latinas, which they struggle to break free from.
* "Opportunity": The promise of America is both alluring and elusive for the Garcia girls, who seek opportunities while facing discrimination.
* "Education": A key tool for the Garcia girls to achieve their goals, but also a means of distancing themselves from their heritage.
* "Assimilation": The process of becoming more like the dominant culture, often at the cost of one's identity.
These are just a few examples of the many significant words in "How the Garcia Girls Lost Their Accents." The novel is full of evocative language that illuminates the complex experiences of the Garcia family and their journey of self-discovery.