Nature is a broad term used to indicate specific aspects thereof that feature symbolically in the memoir. Early on in the book, the natural elements described are used to designate home, specifically edible plants, vegetables, and fruit that are unique to El Salvador and Central America. As Javier travels further from home, however, the landscape and vegetation increasingly take on a more sinister, foreign nature. The cacti, for example, are menacing because they represent danger and bodily harm. As Javier becomes more accustomed to the new terrain, the cacti take on a friendly nature, especially the saguaro cacti, which look to him like people. With regard to the protective aspects of nature, a lizard emerges when Javier and the others are being searched by soldiers. He names the lizard Paula. Her presence helps Javier focus his attention on his commonalities with nature and forget the fearful and demeaning treatment he and the others endure at the hands of other humans.

The political and physical borders separating countries are the most obvious borders Javier must overcome to reunite with his parents, but there are other, metaphorical borders he faces as well. One of these borders is the one separating children from adults, especially boys from men.