YOU ARE HERE: CONNECTING FLIGHTS, by Ellen Oh, Allida, March 7, 2023, Hardcover, $18.99 (ages 8-12)
You Are Here follows twelve Asian American youths as their paths intersect while traveling through a busy Chicago airport.
An incident at a TSA security check point sows chaos and rumors, creating a chain of events that impacts twelve young Asian Americans in a crowded and restless airport. As their disrupted journeys crisscross and collide, they encounter fellow travelers — some helpful, some hostile — as they discover the challenges of friendship, the power of courage, the importance of the right word at the right time, and the unexpected significance of a blue Stratocaster electric guitar.
Twelve powerhouse Asian American authors explore themes of identity and belonging in the entwined experiences of young people whose family roots may extend to East and Southeast Asia, but who are themselves distinctly American.
Written by Linda Sue Park, Erin Entrada Kelly, Grace Lin, Traci Chee, Mike Chen, Meredith Ireland, Mike Jung, Minh Lê, Ellen Oh, Randy Ribay, Christina Soontornvat, and Susan Tan, and edited by Ellen Oh. —Synopsis provided by Allida
You Are Here is one of those books that just kind of sticks with you. It’s a compilation of twelve one-chapter short stories. The magic comes where the stories overlap. A look of solidarity in passing, a small smile, an inspiring act of bravery. Those moments bring the stories together into what is a compelling and moving look at the lives of young Asian Americans.
Each writer’s own style embodies the character they portray, giving them a strong sense of individuality in such a short space. Ellen Oh’s expert editing, makes the entire collaboration seamless. And Oh’s note at the end answers questions that those not of Asian descent may have.
You Are Here is a fast and engaging read perfect heading into the summer travel season.
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