Tortilla Curtain is a very interesting book that has realistic views. It clearly illustrates the real problems that surround the daily life of Americans and illegal immigrants on the Mexican border. It shows the reader the problems the Mexicans and Americans face every day. The novel illustrates to us the differences and the conflicts between the two groups.
             The novel does not take a particular stand on the issue of illegal immigration however. Instead, it tells the story from an objective point of view. The reader gets to know both the Mexican couple and the American couple. The novel contrasts their lives and uncovers their feelings to the reader. It is very unclear however, if the author has any opinions about the above issue, because he never mentions his point of view. Also, he covers it up by presenting all opposing views with equal power, so that the reader cannot tell who has a stronger argument.
             The Mexicans in the novel face problems like racism, finding work, and even finding food to eat. Candido and America have no dwelling in the novel, this is often a real problem for the poor Mexican immigrants who live near the border. Racism is a big issue in the novel. For example, when Delaney sees Mexicans, he has a feeling of disgust every time and thinks that they did something wrong.
             The novel however stereotypes the characters in the novel. There are no white characters that are poor and no Mexicans that are prominent. In reality this happens often and is common in some places in the U.S. There are plenty of rich Mexicans and poor Caucasians living in some areas of the United States.
             Tortilla Curtain gives the reader a good realistic perspective of the situation on the Mexican border. It reveals the daily life of Mexicans and Americans in that region and shows how the two groups confront each other. With the exception of a few things the novel is truthful and modern.
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