Essay Questions

How does Alvarez explore the challenges facing the illegal immigrants in the United States of America?

The entire novel revolves around the problems facing undocumented immigrants in the United States of America. The Cruz family is one of the undocumented families in America, facing several hurdles that make their lives unbearable. For instance, undocumented immigrants cannot secure good jobs or access medical care and other essential services. Similarly, undocumented families live in fear because any time they are caught, the authorities deport them back to their countries.

Why is Mari’s mother doing everything to return to the United States of America after her deputation?

Mari's mother suffers a major setback when the immigration officers deport her to Mexico. Mari's mother finds it difficult to live in Mexico because her entire family is in the United States of America. Making matters worse, her husband gets very ill, prompting her to do anything within her power to return and care for her ailing husband and family. Despite many hurdles at the border, Mari's mother pays a coyote who successfully sneaks her into the United States of America.

How significant is the character Tyler in the novel Return to Sender?

Tyler is the central character in the novel and the son of Alvarez. Tyler is an important character because he plays a critical role in developing the plot and main topics in the novel, including family, loyalty and humanity. Despite his young age, Tyler makes important decisions on managing their farm after his father suffers an accident and becomes unable to do anything. In addition, Tyler is a humane person because he loves Mari's family despite their illegal immigration status in the United States of America. Tyler encourages his family to help Mari's mother return to the United States and rejoin her family.