This memoir was compelling and sensitive. Couldn't put it down. Very thoughtfully written, the memoir will leave you uplifted.
I chose this book to read because of my work with Hmong students at our school. I felt a void not knowing their history and not understanding the parent perspective. The story of Yang's family crossing the Mekong river helped explain their immigrant journey. I understand more now the gender norms of the society and the desire to have large families. I loved the compassion that Kao had for her grandmother and the image of her washing the dirt from many lands from her feet. The last few chapters of the book that covered the grandmother's funeral I simply didn't want to end.
I am hopeful that Kao Kalia Yang might speak to our group and will shamelessly push this book on every Hmong young woman coming through our school
Inspired respect and understanding. Highly recommend.
