60 pages • 2 hours read
Listen, Slowly
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Book Brief
288
Novel • Fiction
Vietnam • Contemporary
2015
Middle grade
8-12 years
800L
Super Short Summary
Twelve-year-old Mai Le from Laguna Beach reluctantly accompanies her grandmother to Vietnam to uncover what happened to her grandfather, who was a prisoner of war. During her stay, Mai forms a surprising friendship with a local girl and gains a deeper understanding of her heritage. Together, they navigate cultural differences and family history, ultimately finding closure and forging a stronger connection to their roots.
Contemplative
Emotional
Nostalgic
Bittersweet
Reviews & Readership
7,317 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Listen, Slowly by Thanhha Lai presents a touching exploration of identity, heritage, and family through a young Vietnamese American girl's journey. Praised for its rich cultural insights and lyrical prose, the novel also faces critiques for its sometimes slow pacing. Ultimately, the emotional depth and relatable themes make it a worthwhile read for middle-grade audiences.
Who Should Read Listen, Slowly?
Readers who enjoyed Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai or The Thing About Luck by Cynthia Kadohata will cherish Listen, Slowly. This novel appeals to middle-grade readers interested in themes of cultural identity, family, and self-discovery, particularly those who enjoy heartfelt stories rooted in personal growth and multicultural experiences.
7,317 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
288
Novel • Fiction
Vietnam • Contemporary
2015
Middle grade
8-12 years
800L
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