Return to Sender

When Tyler initially realizes that Mari, her father, and her uncles did not emigrate legally to the United States, he is uncomfortable and bothered by their presence. The fact that his parents hired them worries him deeply; he is confused when his parents want him to keep the Mexicans a secret and shocked when they mention that the farm might be raided: “All his life his parents have taught him to obey the laws and respect the United States of America” (56). When he pointedly asks if they are doing something wrong, however, his father’s response is, “It’s not wrong in God’s eyes” (56). This introduces to Tyler the concept of a higher justice: “Sometimes, a country has these laws that have nothing to do with what’s right or what’s best for most the people involved” (56).

Initially, Tyler does not accept this explanation; to him, right and wrong are clear concepts—or should be. He wonders if they should notify the police, at which point his father makes it clear that hiring the Mexicans is the only way the farm might be saved. Of course Tyler wants his family to keep the farm, so his questions cease; however, he struggles with this conflict between the law and “what’s best” for their families for two months. Finally, as he grows to know Mari and the Cruzes, Tyler gains an intuitive understanding of the higher justice his father mentioned. His respect for their hard work and their ability to overcome conflict prompts his help and concern as their situation worsens. He can better see the shades of gray in the Cruzes’ transgressions: Tío Felipe runs from the law, but only out of fear; Mr. Cruz strikes an officer, but only because his inability to help his wife for so long erodes his judgment. Ultimately, Tyler actively supports the family as they struggle; he thinks of Señora Ramirez to serve as a translator for Tío Felipe and the lawyer, and he loans his savings to Mr. Cruz to help secure Mamá’s release.

Other characters’ changed attitudes indicate recognition of this higher justice as well. Mr. Rossetti, whose outspoken anti-immigrant comments at the town meeting and threats to name those guilty of hiring Mexicans initially worry Tyler, understands that the Cruzes working in America is not a simple matter of right versus wrong once he gets to know the family and sees Grandma’s devotion to their safety and happiness. He claims, “That’s no way to treat decent folks!” (273) when ICE comes to apprehend the Cruzes. Mr. O’Goody, the immigration official who hears Mari’s story, indicates he will work to help Mari’s parents and clarify that no criminal sentencing is necessary in their cases.