This book tells the story of a six-year-old refugee girl, from her journey from Vietnam to the US until adulthood. Her first years are chronicled somewhat in detail. Later years less so. It is interwoven with flash backs to Vietnam with stories of her brother and parents.

The theme of family and connections and the reality of the characters. I felt like I knew them.

The book either lacks a traditional plot or it was not well executed. I felt that rather than end, it merely petered out.

Despite what feels like a weak ending and unclear plot (to me) it's an interesting read. The sense of family and its importance and influence becomes a clear theme.

This book also shows the cultural clash immigrants and their children face. thúy lê speaks sensitively with knowledge and humor of these difficulties.

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Created Jan 26, 2006 at 11:21pm • Submit your own review...