Nothing But The Truth (and a few white lies)

Lots of books about immigrant or refugee kids are serious and heavy, and understandably so. But when you're squashed into the small space between cultures, you'd go nuts without poking fun at your situation. Self-deprecatory humor is a survivor's must. That's why I'm recommending Justina Chen Headley's new novel for younger YAs featuring half-Taiwanese half-white Patty Ho, Nothing But The Truth (and a few white lies) (Little Brown, April 2006). I read it on the plane coming home from New Orleans and chuckled out loud at Headley's wry voice and hilarious descriptions. The author offers an unstinting look at the challenges of growing up as a biracial teen in suburban America, and yet includes enough hope and humor to make this a highly satisfying, enjoyable read. (Kelly Herold of The Edge of The Forest sums it up better than I could, so I'll send you to her review.)