Description
Inspired by the author’s childhood experiences as a refugee–fleeing Vietnam after the Fall of Saigon and immigrating to Alabama–this coming-of-age debut novel told in verse has been celebrated for its touching child’s-eye view of family and immigration.H;agrave; has only ever known Saigon: the thrills of its markets, the joy of its traditions, and the warmth of her friends close by. But now, the Vietnam War has reached her home. H;agrave; and her family are forced to flee as Saigon falls, and they board a ship headed toward hope–toward America.This moving story of one girl’s year of change, dreams, grief, and healing received several four-star reviews, including one from Kirkus/, which proclaimed it ;ldquo;enlightening, poignant, and unexpectedly funny.;rdquo;An author’s note explains how and why Thanhha Lai translated her personal experiences into H;agrave;’s story.This paperback edition also includes an interview with the author, an activity students can do with their families, tips on writing poetry, and discussion questions.#1 i>ew York Times/ Best Sellerbr />ewbery Honor Bookbr /Winner of the National Book AwardTopics covered in this book include emigration and immigration, Asian American culture, and verse.Genre: FictionLexile Measure: 800LCopyright 2011. Middle school. 5 x 8 inches. Softcover. 262 pages.
