Why is the book titled “Underground America”? Who or what is “underground,” and why?

This question asks readers to think critically about the choices that the editors made in compiling this collection of stories. The word “Undergound” in the title is a reference to the fact that many undocumented immigrants are forced to live “underground,” which is to say in the shadows. While they are able to gain some access to government benefits, they must be careful about the paper trail they leave as they navigate the U.S.

What is the significance of the story that Urrea offers in his Forward, about Alex and the pancake house?

In his forward, Urrea offers the story of Alex, the pancake house busboy with throat cancer, as an example of how communities can get involved in the lives of undocumented immigrants through financial and emotional support. Alex’s life...