The Book of Unknown Americans

Arturo unexpectedly loses his job at the mushroom farm. He scrambles to find work within 30 days so that the family’s visa will remain valid. Alma tries to make do with their reduced food stock, making rice and beans day after day. The three of them go to a nearby pizza parlor to celebrate Arturo and Alma’s anniversary although they can only order water. They attempt to stay in good spirits, and Maribel surprises her parents with her renewed capacity to tell jokes. No job offer arrives in 30 days, and the family becomes undocumented.

An ice storm prompts the Riveras and Toros to go ice skating together. They all pack into Rafael’s new car, shouting their plans out the car window to Quisaqueya, who looks visibly chagrined at being excluded. Alma is nervous throughout the outing, mostly about Maribel, whom she momentarily loses sight of. Arturo convinces Alma that Maribel is fine, safe with Mayor, and coaxes Alma onto the ice to skate with him.

Shortly after, Quisaqueya arrives at their doorstep, saying that she has information that she needs to convey to Alma and Arturo.