by Bao Phi and Thi Bui (Capstone Young Readers)
Here’s an intimate look at a family’s traditions in a new place. It’s familiar, but not. Home, but not.
A young boy and his father head out on an early morning adventure full of streetlights and stories and minnows.
They park by a pond. Under the stars. In the dark.
For fish.
For food.
For America is expensive.
Around a fire, the boy eats bologna. The dad remembers Vietnam. The pair. The pond.
The book is full of cool, dark blues. Warm, bright light. Calm and comfort. Home and home.
Both Phi and Bui came to America as small children, escaping Vietnam and heading toward hopeful futures. Their experience reflected here is a reminder for all of us—one of our ability to welcome and to love. A reminder of our humanity.
Thanks to Capstone Young Readers for the images in this post.
