Books about immigration

Esperanza Rising is a powerful and moving historical novel that tells the story of Esperanza Ortega, a young girl who must leave her life of wealth and privilege in Mexico for the harsh reality of a California farm labor camp during the Great Depression. When a family tragedy forces Esperanza and her mother to flee, she must learn to navigate a world of hard physical labor, financial struggle, and social injustice. This beautifully written story is perfect for children who love historical fiction and readers interested in stories of courage and transformation.

Ideal for middle grade readers, this award-winning book explores deep themes of resilience and the importance of family bonds. As Esperanza faces the challenges of her new life, including her mother's illness and the tensions of labor strikes, she discovers her own inner strength. It is a great choice for parents looking for books that teach empathy and provide a window into the history of the American West and the immigrant experience.

Highlights:

• A compelling look at the Great Depression and Mexican-American history.
• A rich, emotional journey of a girl finding her strength and voice.
• Themes of social justice, perseverance, and family loyalty.
• Winner of the Pura Belpré Award and a modern classroom classic.

Front Desk is a powerful and heart-wrenching yet hopeful story that introduces readers to ten-year-old Mia Tang. Living in a motel isn't exactly the American dream Mia’s parents imagined when they immigrated from China, but Mia makes the best of it by managing the front desk of the Calivista Motel. This book is perfect for children who love stories about spunky, determined protagonists who fight for what is right. It’s an ideal choice for readers interested in learning about the immigrant experience, social justice, and the importance of community.

As Mia balances school, her secret life at the motel, and her dreams of becoming a writer, she must also navigate the cruelty of the motel owner, Mr. Yao. Kelly Yang weaves a masterful tale based on her own childhood experiences, making this a great choice for fans of realistic fiction that doesn't shy away from tough topics like poverty and racism. Readers will be inspired by Mia’s courage as she helps her parents hide fellow immigrants and works to find her voice through her letters.

Highlights:

• An inspiring story about the immigrant experience and the pursuit of the American Dream.
• Features a strong, relatable female protagonist who uses her writing to make a difference.
• Explores important social themes like poverty, racism, and systemic injustice in an accessible way.
• Perfect for fans of realistic middle grade novels that balance heavy topics with humor and heart.

Mia Tang is back and ready to take on her biggest challenge yet in Key Player, the fourth installment of the beloved Front Desk series. As the Women's World Cup arrives in Southern California, Mia finds herself caught between her Chinese heritage and her American life. When a low grade in P.E. threatens her academic standing, Mia sets out on a daring mission to interview the world-class soccer stars from both the U.S. and Chinese teams. It is a heartwarming and high-stakes journey that perfectly balances sports excitement with deep personal growth.

Ideal for readers interested in AAPI stories and sports fiction, this novel explores complex themes like immigration, prejudice, and the meaning of home. Parents looking for books that encourage resilience and empathy will find Mia Tang to be an inspiring role model. Whether your child is a soccer fan or simply loves a story about a girl who never gives up, this book is a must-read that captures the spirit of the late 90s with humor and heart.

Highlights:

• Features a strong, relatable Asian-American female protagonist.
• Explores the excitement of the 1999 Women's World Cup and sports journalism.
• Tackles real-world issues like immigration and housing with sensitivity and humor.
• Perfect for fans of the Front Desk series and readers who enjoy realistic fiction.

Kiffe kiffe demain est un roman incontournable qui plonge les lecteurs dans le quotidien de Doria, une adolescente de quinze ans pleine d'esprit vivant dans une cité de Livry-Gargan. Avec un humour décapant et une lucidité touchante, Doria raconte sa vie entre une mère courageuse, des assistantes sociales zélées et les défis de la vie en banlieue. C'est un récit vibrant qui capture parfaitement la voix de la jeunesse des quartiers populaires, mêlant réalisme social et espoir.

Ce livre est idéal pour les lecteurs intéressés par les récits d'apprentissage contemporains et les histoires de résilience. Les parents à la recherche d'une lecture authentique pour leurs adolescents apprécieront la plume de Faïza Guène, qui traite de sujets profonds comme l'abandon paternel, l'intégration et la quête de soi avec une légèreté salvatrice. C'est un excellent choix pour encourager la discussion sur la diversité et les réalités sociales de la France moderne.

Highlights:

• Une voix narrative unique, drôle et profondément humaine.
• Une exploration authentique de la vie en banlieue parisienne.
• Un portrait touchant de la relation mère-fille face à l'adversité.
• Un style d'écriture moderne qui parle directement aux jeunes adultes.

Le Gone du Chaâba est un récit autobiographique poignant et plein d'humour qui transporte les lecteurs dans la France des années 1960. Nous suivons le jeune Azouz, qui grandit dans le « Chaâba », un bidonville aux portes de Lyon. Entre les traditions de sa famille algérienne et les exigences de l'école française, Azouz cherche sa place avec une curiosité insatiable et une soif d'apprendre qui le distingue de ses camarades.

Ce livre est idéal pour les lecteurs intéressés par les récits de vie authentiques et les thématiques d'intégration. À travers les yeux d'Azouz, on découvre les défis de la double culture, l'importance de l'éducation comme moteur de réussite, et la solidarité au sein d'une communauté soudée malgré la pauvreté. C'est un choix parfait pour les adolescents qui aiment les histoires touchantes qui font réfléchir sur la société et l'identité personnelle.

Highlights:

• Un témoignage authentique et émouvant sur l'immigration en France.
• Une écriture savoureuse mêlant français et dialecte local.
• Une leçon de résilience et d'espoir à travers le parcours scolaire d'Azouz.
• Un classique de la littérature contemporaine accessible aux jeunes lecteurs.

The Sun Is Also a Star is a captivating and emotionally charged novel that explores the intersection of science, fate, and the power of human connection. Set against the vibrant backdrop of New York City, the story follows Natasha, a girl who believes only in facts and logic, and Daniel, a dreamer and poet. Their paths cross on a day that will change their lives forever—Natasha is just hours away from her family being deported to Jamaica, while Daniel is struggling to meet his parents' high expectations. This book is a perfect choice for readers who enjoy dual-perspective narratives and stories that tackle significant social issues through a personal lens.

Ideal for fans of contemporary realistic fiction, Nicola Yoon’s masterpiece delves into the complexities of the immigrant experience and the weight of family legacy. Parents and educators will appreciate how the book encourages critical thinking about destiny versus choice. It is a great choice for teenagers who love fast-paced, high-stakes romances that are grounded in real-world challenges. Whether your teen is interested in science, poetry, or the magic of 'meant-to-be' moments, this National Book Award finalist offers a profound look at how every small moment can lead to a life-altering future.

Highlights:

• A powerful exploration of the immigrant experience and the realities of deportation.
• Engaging dual-perspective storytelling between two distinct, relatable protagonists.
• Thought-provoking themes of fate, science, and the interconnectedness of the universe.
• A fast-paced, emotional plot set entirely within a single day in New York City.

Mia Tang is back in this powerful sequel to the award-winning Front Desk. Now that her family officially owns the Calivista Motel, Mia thinks sixth grade will be her best year yet. She gets to manage the front desk with her best friend Lupe and continue pursuing her passion for writing. However, the reality of 1990s California brings new challenges as a controversial law threatens the safety and belonging of her community. Mia must find her voice and use her writing to fight for what is right, even when the stakes are higher than ever.

This moving story is perfect for children who love realistic fiction that tackles important social issues with heart and humor. Ideal for readers interested in stories about immigration, activism, and the power of friendship, Kelly Yang delivers a narrative that is both educational and deeply personal. It is a great choice for classrooms and families looking to discuss diversity, empathy, and standing up against injustice.

Highlights:

• A compelling look at the immigrant experience and social justice in the 1990s.
• Strong themes of friendship, courage, and using one's voice for change.
• Relatable characters navigating the complexities of middle school and family life.
• A fast-paced and emotional sequel that stands strong on its own.