Inside Out & Back Again

  "Inside Out & Back Again" is an incredibly moving, true story of a ten year old who lives in Saigon, but sadly, the Vietnam War nears closer to her home. In the first few pages we learn that Hà is a stubborn girl (A.K.A. a rebel) who knows what she is supposed to do, but does what she sees fit. We also see that see is the youngest, and is the only daughter. Her mother is clearly the head of the house. after a few poems, Hà and her family must flee, and they end up taking refuge in Alabama, where Hà's journey really begins.
  This book may be a much lower reading level than I am used to, but this story is just so beautiful. Thanhha Lai incorporates her memories, from when she was in this same situation, into this little girl's story. Hà is no doubt, my favorite character. The simplicity in her attitude makes me so happy, but at the same time, very sad because when she moves to Alabama, she has no idea how mean and vicious American children can be. Reading about Hà's struggle with the "Pink Boy" made me so sad, but like she says "The pity giver feels better, never the pity receiver."
  I would also like to say that I did not come across this book using my Penguin Group connection, but through the New York State curriculum. I was not supposed to finish this book so soon (I just got it yesterday), but i couldn't help it. I'm not sure who specifically to recommend this amazing book to. I do believe that this book is a MUST READ no matter how old you are.