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I think Maria is included in the story because she serves as a reason to keep Enrique behind even though it doesn't work. She is also so relevant because of the strength of her character and her feelings for Enrique.

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Although Maria Isabel isn't one of the main characters in the story she still has a very important role. One of the purpose's she serves is to be a reason to make Enrique stay home. Even though his girlfriend and friends are home he still chooses to find his mom. Another purpose i think she serves in the story is a strong independent character. What drives Maria Isabel is her love for Enrique and he willingness to risk it all to find him. She is also driven by her possible child and tries to make all her decisions based on him.

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"She makes a plan to follow Enrique north, to find him in Mexico or in the United States" (Nazario 82).

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"What if she is pregnant and Enrique dies trying to make it to his mother? Then she will be alone, raising their child" (Nazario 82).

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"She doesn't feel well and loses weight" (Nazario 82).