Family
Style: Memories of an American from Vietnam
Told through the lens of meaningful food and meals, this
graphic novel chronicles the author's childhood immigration to America where
food takes on new meaning as he and his family search for belonging, for
happiness and for the American dream.
This autobiography following Thien and his transition from
Vietnam to America is a compelling insight into the immigration experience for
Vietnamese Americans, and I am sure it shares similarities with other
immigrants from a myriad of countries.
It is moving to see the desperation that his family experiences and
overcomes over and over again. We watch
how Thien assimilates to American culture and then as he grows older his
connection back to his Vietnamese roots. It is equal parts painful as we read of the
vitriol and racism that people spewed at him and his family and hopeful--filled with
moments of joy. A recommended read.
If you like Family Style, you might also like:
A powerful and moving teen graphic novel memoir about immigration,
belonging, and how arts can save a life.
Seamlessly toggling between past and present, this funny
graphic memoir follows a queer Chinese American's immigration to Texas where
she just wants to make the basketball team, escape Chinese school, and figure
out why she is attracted to girls.
RBL
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