Review: Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai

Synopsis: Inspired by the author's childhood experience 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. (from the online description)

Review: Ever read a book and feel your view point shift, like taking a step to the side and seeing the world from slightly different angle. This book. Told in short free-style poetry, we follow a ten-year old Vietnamese girl as she and her family are evacuated from Vietnam after the Fall of Saigon and sent as Refugees to Alabama, in 1975. Viewing our world from her eyes shifted something inside me, a small something, but I know I finished the book a different person then when I started.

Looking at one’s own culture and country from other’s eyes can be jarring. It is vital, however, for growth. And seeing one’s culture through the eyes of a hurt and bewildered child is particularly eye-opening. It gives one a change to examine prejudices and ideas, to ponder them anew.

For children, I would recommend, although only if an adult reads with. There are some strong and hard truths about the world. But there are some great lessons to – particularly about how to treat someone who is different from you. In this day and age, that is a valuable lesson. 

Bookmarks: 4 of 5

Awards: National Book Award, Newbery Honor

ISBN: 978-0-06-196279-0
Year Published: 2011
Date Finished: 8-31-2018
Pages: 262