Deeply researched, SOMEWHERE SISTERS examines transracial adoption through the story of Ha and Isabella, Vietnamese twins who were separated as babies—one adopted by a family in the United States, and one adopted by their aunt and her partner in Vietnam. 

 

Hayasaki structures the book chronologically, following the girls as they grow up in vastly different environments, until they meet and live together as teens. Interspersed between their story are chapters examining different aspects of transracial adoption and twin studies. Isabella and Ha’s stories are told mostly in their own words, from years of interviews conducted by the author. We also follow the story of Isabella’s adopted sister Olivia, and I found all three of their voices to be compelling and unique.  Hayasaki’s own perspective is very lightly felt, though I appreciated the moments where her story helped bring context to the narrative. The balance between intimate storytelling and analytical sections was perfect. 

 

The similarities between Isabella and Ha’s feelings and experiences growing up, even as they lived thousands of miles apart, was astounding. Coupled with intriguing stories from twin studies done around the world, I found it hard to stop reading. The endless push and pull between nature and nurture in scientific debates/studies around twins, and the odd coincidences in peoples’ lives, really make you wonder about what connects us. This is a work of empathetic, curious journalism that is informative and insightful, yet will leave you with a lot to mull over. Highly recommend!