Makina runs the switchboard in her village, putting her in an important position as a go-between. In what ways does Makina translate language and culture for those around her? How does this impact the way she navigates the world?

Signs Preceding the End of the World is structured based on the levels of the Aztec underworld, Mictlān. How does this fact shape the plot of the novel?

Mr. Aitch, one of Little Town’s top-dogs, is a crafty man whose influence extends throughout the novel. What is his role in Makina’s journey? To what extent can he be considered the novel’s antagonist?