PARACHUTE KIDS by Betty C. Tang

 

I had never heard of "parachute kids" until I heard someone mention this book. Written as a graphic novel PARACHUTE KIDS by Betty C. Tang reveals the fact that many immigrant children arrive in the U.S. with their parents, but later are left on their own because their parents are forced to return to their home countries leaving the kids to handle things on their own.

Ann and her two older siblings are told their family is moving to America for a better life. The trip promises all the fun of Disneyland and other vacation-like adventures. There is some fun, but then it is time to settle in. Ann and her siblings are enrolled in school where they are expected to learn English and excel so they will have a chance at a good future. 

Making friends isn't easy when you don't know the language and customs. Ann feels alone. Her sister is busy studying for the upcoming SAT, and her brother is off with friends of his own. Life isn't at all what Ann expected.

Things get even worse when their father announces he must return to Taiwan because his Visa has expired. He promises to return but not for months. Then their mother must leave them as well. Now the three siblings are left behind to manage their own lives until their parents can return. Attending school, shopping, managing money prove to be complicated without parents to make decisions and mediate arguments. Their illegal status must remain a secret or they could end up in jail or sent back to Taiwan.

PARACHUTE KIDS is a real eye opener. The graphic novel format makes for a quick, easy read. It is an important read for everyone.