 | Halfway there : a graphic memoir of self-discovery Author: Mari, Christine | |
| Price: $14.75 | ||
Summary:
A Japanese American college student reconnects with her roots in Tokyo, Japan, while wrestling with feelings of loneliness, depression, and cultural identity confusion. In graphic novel format.
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (+) (08/15/24)
School Library Journal (+) (00/10/24)
Booklist (10/15/24)
The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books (00/11/24)
The Hornbook (00/11/24)
Full Text Reviews:
Booklist - 10/15/2024 How can you be whole when everyone tells you you’re half? In this graphic memoir, Mari (Diary of a Tokyo Teen, 2016) explores growing up with a Japanese mother and an American father, as well as the experiences of living in both the U.S. and Japan. As a child, Mari feels exoticized, not quite fitting in with her friends or surroundings in the States. She hopes moving to Japan will help define her identity, as she works on getting in touch with her roots and studying Japanese. Though the pressure of self-discovery becomes too much to handle, Mari reconnects with her grandparents and transcends language barriers so her family can be her lifeline. As depression tries to pull her under, Mari agonizes over why she can’t be normal and why she feels so broken. With the help of friends, family, and therapy, Mari comes to recognize that healing comes from within and tackles her self-image. Muted colors and hand-drawn illustrations deliver an intimate look into a difficult period. A touching story that anyone who's felt alone can connect with. - Copyright 2024 Booklist.
