IN THE BEAUTIFUL COUNTRY by Jane Kuo

 

It is 1980. Anna and her mother are waiting for the paperwork that will allow them to join Anna's father who has already traveled to America. Anna is excited but also afraid. Moving from Taiwan to America holds the promise of great things, but it also means a new life learning, a new language, and making new friends.

Anna's father moved months ago to meet a friend with a new business. It turned out that the so-called friend decided not to include Anna's father in the new business. Her parents have planned and worked across the great distance to arrange the purchase of a fast-food restaurant. Now as Anna and her mother are about to travel to what her father calls "the beautiful country," the hope is that this restaurant will be the answer to their dreams.

Learning English, learning the restaurant business, and dealing with bullies at school and at her parents' business are just a few of the challenges of living in America. Anna tries not to complain about their lack of money and their tiny apartment, but it sure doesn't seem like any of the promised dreams are even close to coming true.

Inspired by her own family's journey, author Jane Kuo uses verse to create this historical fiction tale about young Anna. Immigrant stories can offer a diversity that help readers who are living with immigrant challenges and those who want to learn more about it. Anna's story continues in LAND OF BROKEN PROMISES. Highly recommend for ages 10 and up.