Return to Sender is the story of two friends, Mari and Tyler, and their families who seem to have nothing in common. Mari's family has come to American to earn a living and Tyler's family is depending on Mari's family to keep their beloved farm up and running. Although I did enjoy reading this book, I thought Mari's character seemed too sophisticated for a sixth grade girl, especially in her writing style to her mother. Like other reviews I have read, I loved the teacher Mr. B.

Some parts of the novel felt too forced to me, such as "Tyler hates to admit it, but after September 11, he's a little scared of strangers from other countries who might be plotting to destroy the United States of America." (p 42) Speaking of Tyler, I think his portion of the story would've came across better if told from a first person point of view.

I would use this book for sixth grade and up. I think middle grade students would appreciate the story line, but high school students could delve further into the themes of Immigration, migrant work, language, and identity.