Red, White, and Whole
Red, White, and Whole by Rajani LaRocca is a poignant novel in verse published by HarperCollins Publishers in 2021. This 217-page book explores the life of an Indian American girl named Reha, whose world is turned upside down when her mother is diagnosed with leukemia. The narrative delves into Reha’s struggle to balance her identity between her school life and her family’s traditions, highlighting the emotional disconnect she feels from her mother during this challenging time.
Readers will find a heartfelt exploration of family dynamics, cultural identity, and the impact of illness on relationships. As Reha grapples with her aspirations of becoming a doctor while facing the harsh realities of her mother’s health, the story presents themes of hope and resilience. This edition offers a unique perspective on social topics and health, making it a relevant read for those interested in juvenile fiction that addresses complex emotional landscapes.
Official synopsis Publisher
Newbery Honor Book! A heartbreakingly hopeful novel in verse about an Indian American girl whose life is turned upside down when her mother is diagnosed with leukemia.
* Walter Award Winner * New England Book Award Winner * An NCTE Notable Verse Novel * Golden Kite Award Winner * Crystal Kite Award Winner * Goodreads Choice Nominee * A Washington Post Best Children’s Book of the Year * An SLJ Best Book of the Year * A BookPage Best Book of the Year * An NYPL Best Book of the Year * A Mighty Girl’s Best Book of the Year * An ILA Notable Book for a Global Society * A Bank Street Best Book of the Year *Junior Library Guild Selection * A Judy Lopez Memorial Award Honor *
Reha feels torn between two worlds: school, where she’s the only Indian American student, and home, with her family’s traditions and holidays. But Reha’s parents don’t understand why she’s conflicted–they only notice when Reha doesn’t meet their strict expectations. Reha feels disconnected from her mother, or Amma. Although their names are linked–Reha means “star” and Punam means “moon”–they are a universe apart.
Then Reha finds out that her Amma is sick. Really sick.
Reha, who dreams of becoming a doctor even though she can’t stomach the sight of blood, is determined to make her Amma well again. She’ll be the perfect daughter, if it means saving her Amma’s life.
From Indies Introduce author Rajani LaRocca comes a radiant story about the ties that bind and how to go on in the face of unthinkable loss. This is the perfect next read for fans of Jasmine Warga and Thanhhà Lại.
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