1. Why does Manny Bustos want to live in the United States? Are his dreams realistic? Possible?

2. Sergeant Locke's drinking is described as "even and professional" rather than social or celebratory. Why?

3. What insights does this novel provide about poverty and homelessness?

About war?

4. Describe the significance of the bullfight within the larger narrative of The Crossing.

5. What prompts Manny to stop lying and tell the truth? How does Sergeant Locke react to this development?