Parachute Kids is a poignant amalgamation of immigrant stories. If you aren't familiar with the term parachute in this context, it is a kid who is left to live in a country (usually the US) while their parents or guardians are back home in a different country. Sometimes they are left with other relatives, but other times they are largely responsible for themselves. It seems unimaginable to many, but it is a reality that many young people have faced whose families just wanted safety and a better future for their children. 

Feng Li Lin is ten years old and super excited for her family's first trip to the USA, until her parents reveal that they have to return and the kids are staying behind. Feng Li is the middle child, so she must listen to her big brother and help care for her little sister. There are lots of big and small challenges for the Lin kids, and they fight and come together in many ways. 

The end of this book really pulled my heart strings and I cried a few times. This is much heavier than the typical middle grades graphic novel, but not to be avoided. It was done in a way that is respectful and true to the immigrant experience many have had while treading a careful line between too much and not enough emotion for the reader. 

I think this one will stay on my mind for a long time.