Book Brief
320
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1990s
2010
Adult
14-18 years
840L
Super Short Summary
Girl in Translation by Jean Kwok follows Kimberley Chang and her mother as they navigate life after emigrating from Hong Kong to New York City in the 1980s. Through Kim's perspective, we witness her balancing academic excellence with factory labor, striving for a better future amidst poverty and cultural challenges, ultimately pursuing her dreams over personal sacrifices. The book contains scenes involving extreme poverty and significant emotional hardship.
Challenging
Emotional
Inspirational
Contemplative
Hopeful
Reviews & Readership
60,841 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Jean Kwok's Girl In Translation is lauded for its vivid storytelling and authentic depiction of the immigrant experience. Reviewers praise Kwok's relatable characters and emotional depth, highlighting the protagonist's resilience. However, some critiques mention occasional predictability and uneven pacing. Overall, it's a compelling and heartfelt narrative that resonates with many readers.
Who Should Read Girl In Translation?
A reader who would enjoy Girl In Translation by Jean Kwok is likely someone who appreciates immigrant stories, coming-of-age narratives, and themes of resilience. Fans of The Joy Luck Club by Amy Tan and The Namesake by Jhumpa Lahiri will find this novel particularly captivating.
60,841 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
320
Novel • Fiction
New York City • 1990s
2010
Adult
14-18 years
840L
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