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96 pages 3 hours read

Americanized: Rebel without a Green Card

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | YA | Published in 2018

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Book Brief

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Sara Saedi

Americanized

Nonfiction | Autobiography / Memoir | YA | Published in 2018
Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

California • 1990s

Publication Year

2018

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

1030L

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Super Short Summary

Americanized by Sara Saedi is a memoir recounting Saedi's experiences growing up in California as an undocumented immigrant from Iran, exploring her family’s 18-year struggle for permanent residency. Blending humor and sociological commentary, the book delves into issues such as immigration, cultural heritage, and traditional gender roles, as Saedi navigates teenage life and her evolving identity amidst legal uncertainties.

Informative

Humorous

Emotional

Inspirational

Heartwarming

Reviews & Readership

4.2

3,637 ratings

72%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Sara Saedi's Americanized receives praise for its humor and candid portrayal of growing up as an undocumented immigrant. Reviewers appreciate Saedi's blend of personal narrative with historical context, though some feel the tone can occasionally undercut more serious moments. Overall, it’s lauded for its engaging, insightful approach to a complex issue.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Americanized?

Readers who would enjoy Americanized by Sara Saedi are teens and young adults interested in personal narratives about immigration and identity. Fans of books like The Distance Between Us by Reyna Grande or Funny in Farsi by Firoozeh Dumas will find this memoir both relatable and inspiring.

4.2

3,637 ratings

72%

Loved it

22%

Mixed feelings

6%

Not a fan

Character List

Sara Saedi

An Iranian immigrant and the memoir's protagonist, Sara shares her experiences growing up undocumented in California, navigating identity complexities, and ultimately becoming an American citizen.

Sara’s father, known for his kindness and liberal views, supports his family through significant sacrifices as they seek legal citizenship in the U.S. after immigrating from Iran.

Sara’s mother, who balances her Iranian roots with American life, is strong and resourceful, guiding Sara with advice on love and life while embodying a cultural mix.

Sara’s older sister, who initially informs Sara of their undocumented status and serves as a source of wisdom and friendship throughout their journey in the United States.

Sara’s younger brother, born in the U.S., is an American citizen by birth and embodies the freedom from the identity struggles faced by his sisters.

Sara’s paternal grandmother, whose complicated past and independent nature influences Sara’s understanding of her familial legacy and personal empowerment.

Sara’s maternal grandmother, known for her unconventional choices and independence, whose life decisions impact the Saedi family’s dynamics.

Sara’s maternal uncle, who aids in the family’s green card application and fosters strong familial bonds through gatherings and support.

Book Details
Pages

304

Format

Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction

Setting

California • 1990s

Publication Year

2018

Audience

YA

Recommended Reading Age

12-18 years

Lexile Level

1030L

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