Tiger Daughter

Wen is a girl whose parents are first-generation immigrants. They had a difficult time adjusting to the new country and finding the right job that matched their training and interests. Her father was controlling and abusive to her at times. Wen's friend in school, Henry, is a boy from China who doesn't speak English very well but is very talented in math. Their teacher encouraged them to take a test to try to get into the best school in the area. However, Henry's mother suddenly committed suicide, and Henry stopped going to school due to sadness. Wen and her mother brought food to Henry and his Dad. They showed caring and empathy. Wen's father lost his job and turned very bitter and violent. Despite the difficult circumstances, Wen & Henry successfully passed the exam and will enter a better school. They look forward to a brighter future.

The book touches upon several serious topics around death, mental health, cultural differences, domestic abuse, racial discrimination, and the struggles of first-generation immigrants. When facing loss of loved ones or parental abuse, it is important to keep focusing on hard work and making dreams come true. I learned a great deal about the burden carried by first-generation immigrants as they struggled to make ends meet and raise a family. It is about friendship and the bonding between mother and daughter. The book is heartfelt, moving, and inspirational.