_mery98_'s reviews
928 reviews

This is by far the best book I have read this year! A compelling book!

The story told here is one of family, especially the connection of past generations to future generations. A main theme is whether we can fully understand our parents and come to terms with their lives as well as what we inherit from them. 

The author's family came to the United States as refugees from Vietnam, and so another main theme is what it means to be a refugee and an immigrant, and how that affects your sense of home, belonging, and family. 

The author skips back and forth between the birth of her own son, growing up as an immigrant in the US, and her family's past in Vietnam (her mother's story and her father's story are each told, as is the story of how they met), fleeing from Vietnam and ties each of these strands back to where the family is now and who the family members are now. Very thoughtful about the impact of our family's past on our lives, learning to let go and remember that we are finite.

 “Even if you do it quietly you have to give yourself the life you want.” 

 This is why all aspects of history need to be taught. This is one of the most shameful parts of American history. I've heard mentions of Japanese being held in camps but never knew the details. This book was eye-opening!

They Called Us Enem is a worthwhile read for the story, the history, and the example of the son coming to terms with his father with love, tenderness, and respect. 

 I LOVED this book. Each page is just so lush and beautiful and I really fell into the story. It LOOKS and READS like a Golden Age Hollywood movie just without the BS. There's no Hay's Code dictating what's "ethical." It's obvious Jay and Fix love each other--no indecipherable innuendos.

Eighty Days may take inspiration from the past, but given all that's happening in the world, it felt disturbingly timely. Its hard-won happy ending did not solve all of life's problems. 

This book is a good read for anyone who has been in a romantic relationship, especially a long-distance one. Even Brown dedicated his book "for everyone who has ever loved and lost."

It was an eye-opener, to think that somebody could let themselves be open and write so honestly. Lots of it made me laugh and some bits were shocking, but mainly because it was information you would usually hide. 

 “What if I meet people who don't like me or the things I do? asked Tiny Dragon.

'You must walk your own path,' said Big Panda.
'Better lose them than lose yourself.”

Beautiful, inspiring, and a delight to drop in and out of. It speaks to your heart.