Continental Drifter

Readers will be heartened by the message that, while some families don't always seem like they make sense, they still have a lot of love for one another.

This introspective graphic memoir explores bicultural identity and the path toward self-acceptance... Sprinkled throughout are elements of Thai culture and Thai language, depicted in Thai text with English translation, adding depth and cultural context.

Gr 5-8--Kathy isn't quite sure who she is. She loves parts of her life in Thailand while missing her favorite things in the United States. She loves being in America but struggles to find the right group of friends and ways to blend in with the culture. Kathy explains that sometimes, "the outside doesn't match what's inside." Watching her parents and sister navigate their two homes differently adds to her confusion, and each home's location has its benefits and drawbacks. As her sister grows up and becomes more distant, Kathy's sense of isolation increases. She turns to her diary to try to process the challenges and insecurities she faces, but even the kind kids can seem mean when they don't understand or know the real Kathy. As with all families, the dynamics in Kathy's have their ups and downs--growing apart while forming deeper understandings. The illustrations are simple and straightforward, helping readers understand Kathy's thoughts and feelings. Everyone who has been embarrassed by themselves or their family will relate to Kathy's shyness and will appreciate her tender realizations as she finds her path in both of her worlds. Educators looking for books to build empathy may find several helpful scenes throughout. It also lends itself to geography extension activities. VERDICT Continental Drifter offers honest, sometimes painful, insight into growing up as part of two cultures and will help anyone who has ever felt lonely in their own family, or even with friends, process the emotions that come with trying to fit in.--Darby Wallace

Copyright 2024 School Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.

The simple yet expressive art style is charming and at times poignant, showing the family dynamics and the secrets locked within people's hearts.

 

A Junior Library Guild selection

 

"A heartfelt story honestly and evocatively told." —Kirkus Reviews, starred review 

"Continental Drifter offers honest, sometimes painful, insight into growing up as part of two cultures and will help anyone who has ever felt lonely in their own family, or even with friends, process the emotions that come with trying to fit in." -School Library Journal

 

"A fantastic story about the awkward feelings of being from neither here nor there, which will speak to all immigrant kids and their families." —Dan Santat, National Book Award winner and author of A First Time for Everything

 

"Heartfelt and honest, this book will have you rooting for little Kathy in her search for belonging."
—Remy Lai, author of Pie in the Sky and Pawcasso