Return to Sender by Julia Alvarez is a 2009 realistic middle-grade novel set in Vermont that alternates between the perspectives of 11-year-olds Tyler Paquette and Mari Cruz. After Tyler’s father becomes unable to work, his family hires three Mexican men, including Mari’s father, to help on their farm. Tyler and Mari form a friendship despite the challenges posed by anti-immigrant sentiments and legal issues relating to the Cruz family’s undocumented status. The book won both the Pura Belpré Award and the Américas Award.

This book deals with the complex realities of undocumented immigration, including family separation, legal jeopardy, and exploitation.

Readers of Return to Sender by Julia Alvarez applaud its engaging storytelling and timely exploration of immigration issues, depicting the intersecting lives of a Vermont farm boy and a Mexican immigrant girl. Critics point out occasional predictability in plot development but appreciate the book's emotive resonance and its ability to spark important conversations.

Readers who enjoy Return to Sender by Julia Alvarez are typically interested in contemporary issues such as immigration and family dynamics. Fans of Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan and The House on Mango Street by Sandra Cisneros will find similar themes of cultural identity and resilience.

Informative / Challenging / Emotional / Inspirational / Bittersweet

Julia Alvarez

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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Overview

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Return to Sender Summary and Study Guide

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Chapter Summaries & Analyses

Chapters 1-3

Return to Sender Chapters 1-3 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 4-5

Return to Sender Chapters 4-5 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 6-7

Return to Sender Chapters 6-7 Summary & Analysis

Chapters 8-9

Return to Sender Chapters 8-9 Summary & Analysis

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Character Analysis

Return to Sender Character Analysis

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Themes

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Important Quotes

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Essay Topics

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How to use

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Pre-Reading Context

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Thought & Response Prompts

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Activity

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Essay Questions

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Return to Sender

Before You Read

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