The word for America is Mei Guo, which translates as Beautiful Country. This story chronicles 5 years of the author's life as an immigrant child. Many Chinese people in her hometown saw America as the land of the free, home of the brave, land of opportunity. Qian immigrated to New York City with her parents as a young child. She remembers little about her roots except the warmth and love of family left behind. Her parents, professors in China, had to take menial jobs in America. Sweatshops, warehouses, meat packing plants, cab driving- you name it. Their education and expertise were not recognized and left them with few opportunities. They live in less than ideal living quarters in less desirable areas. School was a challenge for Qian as she did not speak English.
Can her parents improve their circumstances? Can Qian rise above the challenges she faces in America?
This is a beautifully written book. The descriptions make the author feel as though they are present in the story. It is a story of hope perseverance and determination. It kept me reading because I just knew things had to get better for this family.
*I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
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