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42 pages 1 hour read

Measuring Up

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2020

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Book Brief

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Lily LaMotte, Illustr. Ann Xu

Measuring Up

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2020
Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Seattle, Washington • Contemporary

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

HL360L

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Super Short Summary

Measuring Up by Lily LaMotte and illustrated by Ann Xu follows 12-year-old Cici, whose family immigrates from Taiwan to Seattle. To fund a visit from her beloved A-má, she enters a cooking competition and realizes her passion for cooking. The story explores her journey navigating the immigrant experience and balancing her Taiwanese heritage with American culture.

Heartwarming

Inspirational

Hopeful

Emotional

Nostalgic

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Measuring Up by Lily LaMotte, illustrated by Ann Xu, is a heartwarming graphic novel praised for its engaging story and vibrant artwork. Readers appreciate its authentic portrayal of cultural identity and family dynamics. However, some found the plot predictable. Overall, it is a delightful read recommended for middle-grade audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Measuring Up?

Readers who enjoy coming-of-age stories that explore cultural identity, family relationships, and culinary adventures would relish Measuring Up by Lily LaMotte, illustrated by Ann Xu. Fans of graphic novels like American Born Chinese by Gene Luen Yang or New Kid by Jerry Craft will appreciate its heartfelt narrative and engaging art.

Character List

Cici

Cici is the protagonist who moves from Taiwan to the United States and navigates her new life by entering a cooking competition, driven by a promise to her A-má.

A-má is Cici's grandmother and a comforting figure for her, teaching her important life lessons and skills, including cooking.

Miranda initially appears as Cici’s rival in the cooking competition, but they develop a friendship as they bond over shared pressures.

Cici’s father is a figure of traditional expectations, pushing Cici to achieve academic success and be aware of challenges faced as an immigrant.

Cici’s mother supports Cici’s interests, including her participation in the cooking competition, and helps her adjust to life in America.

Book Details
Pages

208

Format

Novel • Fiction

Setting

Seattle, Washington • Contemporary

Publication Year

2020

Audience

Middle grade

Recommended Reading Age

8-12 years

Lexile Level

HL360L

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