leahgustafson's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
inspiring
reflective
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? No
4.0
This is a beautiful story, written in verse, that captures the immigrant experience. Ai Shi (Anna) is seen by her family in Taiwan as “the lucky one” because her family is moving to the United States. When she arrives, however, Anna’s expectations of “the beautiful country” do not match reality.
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We follow Anna as she attends school, experiences overt racism, and grapples with her dual identity. Anna’s voice is powerful and authentic. I also like how Kuo highlights the strain on Anna’s parents’ relationship through her eyes and the importance of finding and having your community, where ever you are.
•
This is a short but emotional story that tackles so many major themes such as the immigrant experience, the American Dream, racism, and identity.
•
The format of this book makes it very accessible for young readers. This story can serve as both a mirror and a window and would be a gift to classroom and school libraries everywhere!
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Check out what I'm reading next on Instagram @LeahsLitReview
Check out what I'm reading next on Instagram @LeahsLitReview
Content Warnings
Graphic: Xenophobia, Hate crime, Racism, and Racial slurs
abby_can_read's review against another edition
3.0
📱
The poetry was well written. I think this book handles topics like racism in a related manner. It was sad and hopeful.
The poetry was well written. I think this book handles topics like racism in a related manner. It was sad and hopeful.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Racism, Xenophobia, and Racial slurs
Moderate: Gaslighting, Bullying, and Hate crime
beersbooksandbooos's review against another edition
emotional
funny
hopeful
informative
inspiring
lighthearted
reflective
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? Character
- Strong character development? Yes
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
5.0
I want to start with a thank you to Quill Tree Books, Jane Kuo, and Storygram for letting me read this wonderful book.
This was the very sweetest, most lyrical, and most emotional book I have read this year. It had me smiling, crying, and laughing throughout. I think everyone needs to read this, especially the middle graders. I think they will get a lot out of this and I will be sending a copy of this to my niece. I would check TW/CW before reading this and letting the young one read it. I can't wait to read more from Jane Kuo.
This was the very sweetest, most lyrical, and most emotional book I have read this year. It had me smiling, crying, and laughing throughout. I think everyone needs to read this, especially the middle graders. I think they will get a lot out of this and I will be sending a copy of this to my niece. I would check TW/CW before reading this and letting the young one read it. I can't wait to read more from Jane Kuo.
Content Warnings
Graphic: Bullying, Racial slurs, Xenophobia, and Racism
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