57 pages • 1 hour read
The Latehomecomer
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Book Brief
277
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Thailand And United States • 1980s-2000s
2008
Adult
14-18 years
890L
Super Short Summary
In The Latehomecomer, Kao Kalia Yang tells the story of her family's journey from Thailand's Ban Vinai Refugee Camp to St. Paul, Minnesota, exploring their Hmong heritage and the resilience required to overcome displacement and hardships. Yang documents her family's struggles and sacrifices to ensure a better life for their children, emphasizing the importance of education and family bonds. The memoir includes sensitive topics such as war, starvation, and poverty.
Emotional
Nostalgic
Inspirational
Bittersweet
Contemplative
Reviews & Readership
8,606 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
The Latehomecomer by Kao Kalia Yang is widely praised for its poignant narrative and emotional depth, offering a compelling memoir of the Hmong-American experience. Critics highlight Yang's lyrical prose and vivid storytelling. However, some find the pacing slow at times. Overall, it’s an evocative and essential read for understanding refugee struggles.
Who Should Read The Latehomecomer?
Readers who cherish poignant immigrant narratives, cultural heritage, and personal resilience will be riveted by Kao Kalia Yang’s The Latehomecomer. Comparable to works like Maxine Hong Kingston’s The Woman Warrior and Amy Tan’s The Joy Luck Club, it appeals to those valuing intimate family sagas and Hmong American stories.
8,606 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
277
Autobiography / Memoir • Nonfiction
Thailand And United States • 1980s-2000s
2008
Adult
14-18 years
890L
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