Books matching: struggles with belonging
100 result(s)
- #1
Save:"I'm Down" by Mishna Wolff is a memoir that follows the author's childhood and teenage years growing up as the gifted daughter of a father who believed he was black. Mishna navigates between two worlds, not fitting in either the black neighborhood she was raised in or the white school she attends. The book explores Mishna's struggles with identity, family dynamics, and societal expectations, blending heartbreak and humor in her quest to find her place in the world.
Meanwhile my little sister, who was born in the Rainier Valley, took after my dad. She seemed to pop right out of the womb and into a dance troupe. She found so much love and approval in the black com... - #2
Save:Evading the Dark by E.M. Rinaldi is a captivating debut novel that follows the story of Casey, a witch with no magical abilities, as she navigates a school full of supernatural beings. The book is praised for its relatable and well-defined characters, particularly Casey's sarcastic and feisty personality. The plot unfolds with mystery and suspense, leaving readers hooked from the very beginning as they follow Casey's journey of self-discovery and strength. The writing style is commended for its engaging descriptions, well-developed character dynamics, and the absence of clichés like insta-love or love triangles.
All I knew was pain. I was consumed by it, unable to think or focus on anything else. I struggled, an unwilling passenger of my own mind, as I felt muscle being separated from bone and each individual... - #3
Save:'Bloomability' by Sharon Creech follows the story of 13-year-old Domenica, known as Dinnie, who comes from a family constantly on the move. Set in a boarding school in Switzerland, the novel explores Dinnie's struggles with homesickness, independence, and adapting to a new life. The storyline delves into themes of family dynamics, acceptance, and diversity, showcasing the protagonist's journey of self-discovery amidst a backdrop of Alpine beauty and new opportunities. The writing style is described as beautifully worded, relatable for middle schoolers, and engaging for readers of all ages.
Dinnie's experiences at the boarding school, her relationships with her aunt and uncle, and the unique syllabus at the school that focuses on global awareness are highlighted through the eyes of readers. captures the essence of adventure, unpredictability, and the theme of acceptance, portraying a world where diverse cultures and viewpoints coexist harmoniously. The open ending of the book leaves readers pondering Dinnie's future choices between her old life in the USA and the newfound possibilities in Switzerland, adding depth to the narrative and inviting reflection on themes of belonging and change.
In my first life, I lived with my mother, and my older brother and sister, Crick and Stella, and with my father when he wasn’t on the road. My father was a trucker, or sometimes a mechanic or a picker... - #4
Save:A Gesture Life by Chang-rae Lee is a poignant and introspective novel that delves into the life of Franklin Doc Hata, a Korean Japanese man living in a small New England town. The story unfolds through flashbacks and present-day reflections, revealing Hata's past as a medic in the Imperial Japanese army during WWII, his strained relationship with his adopted daughter, and his struggles to connect emotionally with others. The writing style is described as beautiful, elegant, and quietly powerful, capturing the protagonist's inner turmoil and the haunting effects of war on his life.
PEOPLE KNOW ME HERE. It wasn’t always so. But living thirty-odd years in the same place begins to show on a man. In the course of such time, without even realizing it, one takes on the characteristics... - #5
Save:The Book of Salt by Monique Truong is a historical fiction novel narrated by Binh, the Vietnamese cook employed by Gertrude Stein and Alice B. Toklas in Paris. The book delves into themes of identity, love, exile, and cultural barriers as Binh recounts his life in Vietnam, his journey to France, and his experiences serving the two powerful women. Truong's writing style is described as lyrical, sensuous, and poetic, vividly bringing to life the colors, tastes, and sights of both France and Vietnam. The narrative moves back and forth in time, exploring Binh's search for love and his struggles as a homosexual man in the early 20th century.
We had arrived at the Gare du Nord with over three hours to spare. There were, after all, a tremendous number of traveling cases and trunks. It took us two taxi rides from the apartment to the train s... - #6
Save:'New Kid' by Jerry Craft follows the story of Jordan Banks, a young boy of color who starts attending a prestigious private school instead of the art school he dreamed of. Throughout the school year, Jordan faces challenges such as racism, microaggressions, and struggles to fit in as one of the few students of color at the school. Using his passion for drawing, Jordan navigates through social conflicts, bullies, and the complexities of being the new kid, all while dealing with issues of diversity and racism in his daily life. is a graphic novel that delves into serious topics like implicit bias and classism, with a mix of gentle humor that adds depth to the narrative.
- #7
Save:'Thendara House' in the 'Darkover' series by Marion Zimmer Bradley focuses on the culture clash between the Terrans and the native Darkovans. It follows the story of a Terran, Magda, and a native of Darkover, Jaelle, as they navigate their roles and relationships in this medieval society ruled by a psychic aristocracy. is praised for its exploration of identity, sexuality, and societal issues faced by strong, fully human female characters, making it a feminist tract that challenges mainstream norms. Despite some inconsistencies in storytelling, the book is commended for its engrossing plot and well-loved characters.
Light feathers of snow were falling overhead; but toward the east there was a break in the clouds where the dull reddish light of Cottman IV—the sun of Darkover, called the Bloody Sun by the Terran Em...
(Also, see 87 recommendations for the series Darkover ) Kim Barnes' memoir 'In the Wilderness: Coming of Age in Unknown Country' follows her journey from a childhood in the wild Idaho landscape to breaking free from a strict fundamentalist household. The book explores themes of rebellion against family expectations, struggles with belonging, and the author's deep connection to nature. Through hauntingly crafted sentences, Barnes paints a vivid picture of her upbringing, from the idyllic woods of her early years to the challenges she faced in a more urban setting. The narrative weaves together memories of family dynamics, religious influences, and the impact of societal changes on their lives.
Past the Clearwater Timber Protection Association and the “Fire Danger” board, across the creek and before the dump, the small house squatted in a pocket of red fir and pine, not visible from the road...'Like Family: Growing Up in Other People's Houses: A Memoir' by Paula McLain is a poignant memoir that follows the journey of three sisters as they navigate through a series of foster homes after the disappearance of their parents. The author, McLain, beautifully captures the pain, loneliness, and confusion experienced by the sisters as they move from one home to another, seeking a sense of belonging. Through honest and well-crafted storytelling, McLain delves into the complexities of family relationships, the lasting impact of childhood trauma, and the struggles of finding a place to call home.
The narrative of 'Like Family' not only provides a glimpse into the sisters' tumultuous childhood but also explores the challenges they face in forming lasting bonds, particularly with their final foster family. McLain's writing style is described as touching, shocking, and humorous, offering a rich and detailed account of growing up in foster care in the 1970s and 80s. While the book touches on themes of heartbreak, loss, and resilience, it also highlights the importance of connection and understanding in the face of adversity.
THE LINDBERGHS LIVED WAY out of town in Ashland, California, which is right next-door to Fresno in the San Joaquin Valley. You’ve probably heard of Fresno, it being one of the likeliest places to get ...- #10
Save:Tell Me Three Things is a YA contemporary novel by Julie Buxbaum that follows the story of Jessie, a teenage girl who is dealing with the loss of her mother and the challenges of adjusting to a new life in Los Angeles after her father remarries. Jessie finds solace in the anonymous messages she receives from a student called Somebody Nobody (SN), who helps her navigate the complexities of her new school and life. As Jessie tries to uncover the identity of SN and grapples with fitting in, making friends, and coping with grief, she embarks on a journey of self-discovery and personal growth.
The book explores themes of loss, friendship, love, and resilience through Jessie's experiences in a new school, her interactions with SN, and her relationships with her blended family members. With a mix of humor, emotion, and relatable characters, Tell Me Three Things delves into the challenges of adolescence and the power of connection in overcoming hardships.
Seven hundred and thirty-three days after my mom died, forty-five days after my dad eloped with a stranger he met on the Internet, thirty days after we then up and moved to California, and only seven ...
