Return to Sender by Julia Alvarez weaves the story of two families coming together in the face of adversity and conflict. The novel unfolds through the alternating perspectives of Mari, a young girl whose Mexican family is undocumented, and Tyler, the son of Vermont dairy farmers who employ Mari's family.
Tyler's family farm is on the brink of financial ruin after his father suffers an accident. Despite their precarious legal status, Mari's family proves to be their salvation. Mari grapples with her challenges - her mother is in Mexico due to illness, and the constant fear of deportation looms large. On the other hand, despite feeling sympathy for Mari's family, Tyler is torn between helping them and the potential legal implications for his own family.
Over time, a friendship and mutual respect bond develop between Mari and Tyler over time, transcending cultural differences and legal boundaries. Their journeys are set against a wider backdrop of pressing social and political issues, notably immigration laws and the rights of immigrant workers.
Alvarez employs personal stories and relationships throughout the novel to delve into complex social issues. The dual-perspective storytelling amplifies Mari and Tyler's distinct yet interwoven struggles, immersing readers in a deeply emotional narrative that extends beyond their personal experiences.
Alvarez humanizes the complex issue of immigration, using her characters to show the real lives and struggles often hidden behind political debates and statistics. She navigates the intersection of legality and morality, showing the difficult decisions that families like Tyler's, must make when human livelihoods are at stake.
Similarly, the circumstances bring familial bonds and personal loyalties into stark relief. Tyler's desire to support his family and Mari's struggle to stay connected with her mother illustrate the characters' resilience and loyalty, which often drive their decisions and actions.
Furthermore, the novel underscores the power of empathy and connection to break down barriers. The growing understanding between Mari and Tyler shows that personal relationships can challenge preconceptions, promote change, and build bridges between seemingly disparate worlds.
