How is motherhood depicted in the work?

Javier’s mother is depicted as supportive and willing to sacrifice anything for her son. While she is not really introduced in the memoir outside of Javier’s own memories of her, she is present in his life outlook, and returning to her and reuniting their family is Javier’s dream. She saved and scrounged in order to bring Javier to the United States, despite the danger of crossing the border because she demonstrates the pain a mother feels when she is separated from her child. While Javier is away from his mother, he finds a mother figure in Patricia who protects and advocates for him.

How is Javier’s childhood portrayed?

Javier is a child with a vivid imagination and appreciation for nature. He was always interested in spending time with his friends and extended family in El Salvador...