Inspired by the author’s childhood experiences as a refugee—fleeing Vietnam after the Fall of Saigon and immigrating to Alabama—this coming-of-age debut novel told in verse has been celebrated for its touching child's-eye view of family and immigration.

Hà has only ever known Saigon: the thrills of its markets, the joy of its traditions, and the warmth of her friends close by. But now, the Vietnam War has reached her home. Hà and her family are forced to flee as Saigon falls, and they board a ship headed toward hope—toward America.

This moving story of one girl’s year of change, dreams, grief, and healing received several four-star reviews, including one from Kirkus, which proclaimed it “enlightening, poignant, and unexpectedly funny.”

An author's note explains how and why Thanhha Lai translated her personal experiences into Hà’s story.

This paperback edition also includes an interview with the author, an activity students can do with their families, tips on writing poetry, and discussion questions.

#1 New York Times Best Seller
Newbery Honor Book
Winner of the National Book Award

Topics covered in this book include emigration and immigration, Asian American culture, and verse.

Genre: Fiction

Lexile Measure: 800L

©2011. Middle school. 5 x 8 inches. Softcover. 262 pages.