on memory, on being second-gen, on wanting to belong. lovely and thoughtfully illustrated book. i especially love how the two page spread of "from the depths of the trunk, they unearth a brown paper bag, rusty scissors, and a longing for china" ia done. the flip across the plants from the present to the past generations across the world from each other... the tie between plants and culture and family. 

from the author's note: this story is both an apology and a love letter to my parents. it's also an encouragement to all children who feel different and to families with difficult past- share your memories. tell your stories. they are essential.

(also- love to see an illustrator's note as well!)