The world is full of different backgrounds and cultures. What knowledge of American culture does today's diverse population of students have? What social and familial influences? ""Understanding Cultural Narratives"" features poems and excerpts from the work of well-known authors - including Isabel Allende, Gloria Anzaldua, Jhumpa Lahiri, V.S. Naipul, Pablo Neruda, and Zadie Smith - to explore questions and feelings that are part of identity formation in a second culture. ""Questions for Writing and Discussion"" guide teachers and students through a rich examination of the passages presented. This book is ideal for teachers in training interested in better understanding their students by first understanding their unique stories.