This Is Not My Home

When her mother tells her that they're moving to Taiwan, Lily immediately poses a barrage of concerns: "What about our backyard barbecues? Or our car? And the fireflies at Parsley Park? What about Jill?" Accompanying paneled illustrations show the pale-skinned, dot-eyed child gesturing wildly at each thing mentioned, and clutching friend Jill in a tight embrace. Though Mama explains that they need to care for Lily's Ah Ma, the child remains dejected, and a warm welcome from Ah Ma doesn't change her mood. Unfamiliarity abounds--"This is not my backyard barbecue. This is not our car, these are not my fireflies, and this is not Jill" accompanies humorous images of Lily rejecting Taiwanese cuisine and contending with a speeding scooter and a pit latrine. Growing loneliness at school is the final straw, but a heart-to-heart with Mama gives Lily perspective: "I know this is not your home. But this is mine.... These are my people." Digitally sketched and colored spreads play with the panel format to spotlight the passing of time and bonds forged as Lily slowly transitions to a new home. Debut author-illustrator duo Chang and Yoh offer a take by turns moving and funny, capturing the heartfelt struggles that come with a significant change. Ages 4-8. Agent (for Chang and Yoh): Ellen Goff, HG Literary. (Jan.)

K-Gr 3--Lily, a fourth grader, is about to experience a universally stressful and anxiety producing event: moving. Her single mom tells her they are moving to Taiwan from their home in the United States to care for her grandmother. Panic ensues. Lily asks about her best friend, their car, their market, her school, their home. The move comes just the same. Suddenly, the illustrations show Lily's colorful clothes as shades of gray, clearly reflecting her mood. Nothing feels right. Lily repeats, "This is not my home." School life is the toughest. A little storm cloud appears above Lily's head. Gently, her mom tries to explain that Taiwan is her own home and that it could be theirs together. Lily's clothes start to regain a bit of color. In the following vertical panels, first one friend is made and then another. The passage of time and some shared experiences add more color to Lily's appearance. The honest and relatable prose is seamlessly integrated with the lively, colorful world swirling around Lily. Around a happy multigenerational family dinner table, Lily says "This is my home." VERDICT Yoh and Chang are in lockstep, creating a wonderful read-aloud about moving and family ties. Recommended for all collections, and especially those looking for more about Asian cultures and books about moving.--Elisabeth LeBris