In chapter 12, Los Duraznos, Isabel prays that she will be named Queen of the May but she does not think it will be possible because they only pick girls who wear nice dresses and speak English. Isabel tells the family that there is a new camp for workers from Oklahoma with inside toilets, hot water, and a swimming pool. Mexicans will be allowed to use the pool only on the day before it is cleaned. Esperanza is angered by the idea that Mexicans are considered dirtier than other workers. Esperanza is furious and tells Miguel that there lives are no better here then they were in Mexico. Esperanza is upset with Miguel because he is so hopeful, in a fit of anger she tells him that he is just a peasant here but he says that she is still her queen. Miguel storms off and says that he will be searching for jobs in California.

Mama is able to come home from the hospital today but she is still depressed and weak, she will need to build up her strength at home. Esperanza tells her Mama that she has saved up enough money to bring Abuelita to them but when she goes to show her mother the money orders they are gone.