How is the main character’s childhood experience different from what most people assume is the common experience of children in the United States?

I don't think a sort of cultural confusion is anything new to many new Americans. Antonio's very traditional home often conflicts with his experience at school (ie. his totilla lunches instead od sandwiches). I think, however, Antonio's rapid loss of innocence might be less common. So many people in Antonio's life die or injured. Lupito’s murder, which sparks Antonio’s anxieties about sin and punishment. The murder of Narciso is another key moment in the novel, forcing Antonio to witness yet another death and also assume the role of a priest to give the dying man comfort. The remainder of Antonio’s innocence is lost with the accidental drowning of Florence. One of Antonio’s closest friends, Florence constantly reminded Antonio that a compassionate God could not exist in such an evil world. With his death, Antonio begins to question whether or not he can believe in a God who could allow Florence to die.