One Good Thing About America by Ruth Freeman

Anaïs, a nine-year-old girl, finds herself in a new country, struggling to adapt to her new school and the strange customs of America. She misses her family and home in Africa, and her letters to her grandmother, Oma, provide a touching glimpse into her journey. Through her eyes, we see the challenges and humor of adjusting to a new culture, from Halloween to snow and mac 'n' cheese dinners. The story highlights the common ground across cultures and the importance of acceptance in a nation of immigrants. /n/n Inspired by the author's work with students learning English, this novel is a sweet and often funny exploration of differences and the human experience. It offers a hopeful perspective in a climate of fear and doubt, reminding us that understanding and embracing our differences are crucial for survival and unity.

Reviews

Literal Club · Sarah Sammis · 2024-04-03

delightful 4.00

The book is a sweet and often funny middle-grade novel that explores cultural differences and common ground. It's a heartwarming story that restores hope and reminds us of the positive aspects of America.

Sarah Sammis found this book to be a delightful read that tackles serious themes with a light touch. The story of a refugee child navigating her new life is both timely and universal, making it relatable to a wide audience. The humor and heart in the story make it a joy to read, while also providing valuable insights into the experiences of refugees and immigrants. The book does an excellent job of highlighting the commonalities and differences across cultures, fostering empathy and understanding. It's a story that will leave readers feeling hopeful and inspired, reminding us of the positive aspects of America and the importance of embracing diversity.

Quick quotes

One Good Thing About America is a sweet, often funny middle-grade novel that explores differences and common ground across cultures.

In contrast to a growing climate of fear and doubt, this story of a refugee child navigating her new life restores hope and reminds us that America is, in fact, ...

It's hard to start at a new school . . . especially if you're in a new country.

Children's Books Heal · 2018-09-10

inspiring 4.50

The book is compelling and hopeful, exploring cultural differences and commonalities with humor and insight. It captures the protagonist's angst and journey in a relatable way.

Ruth Freeman's book is a beautiful exploration of cultural differences and the common ground we all share. The story is told with a lot of heart and humor, making it both engaging and thought-provoking. The protagonist's journey is particularly compelling, as she navigates her new life in America and the challenges that come with it. The book does an excellent job of capturing the universal aspects of the human experience, while also highlighting the unique struggles of refugees and immigrants. It's a story that will leave readers feeling hopeful and inspired.

Quick quotes

Ruth Freeman's compelling and hopeful book explores differences and common grounds among cultures.

She humorously captures Anais' angst through her letters to her grandmother, making the story both relatable and engaging.

The book is a beautiful exploration of cultural differences and the common ground we all share.

Sincerely Stacie · 2017-06-06

heartwarming 4.00

The story is timely and encourages readers to understand the struggles of those adapting to new cultures. It highlights the commonalities and differences across cultures in a thoughtful manner.

This book is particularly relevant in today's climate and does a great job of making us pause and think about the experiences of refugees and immigrants. The protagonist's journey is both relatable and eye-opening, showcasing the universal aspects of human experience while also highlighting cultural differences. It's a heartwarming story that fosters empathy and understanding. The author's use of humor and the protagonist's voice makes the story engaging and accessible, even as it tackles serious themes.

Quick quotes

Her story is timely and makes us pause a moment and try to understand those who come to our country and their struggles adapting to our norms.

Ruth Freeman's compelling and hopeful book explores differences and common grounds among cultures.

She humorously captures Anais' angst through her letters to her grandmother, making the story both relatable and engaging.

Appears in Lists

Best 64 Books About Immigrants and Immigration for All Ages