This touching graphic novel explores family dynamics and how our minds reach for control when it feels like we have none . . . [It] provides insight, encourages empathy, and reminds all immigrant children that they belong here too.
Description
Poupeh needs to speak up for her parents at an embassy interview--the problem is that she's been rendered mute! Smile meets New Kid in this funny, heartwarming, poignant graphic novel about the toll immigrating to the United States takes on a kid's mental health.
Poupeh Babaee is an Iranian girl sent to live with her relatives in the United States. Although Poupeh understands and speaks English, the stress of entering a new school in a foreign land renders her mute, and she is diagnosed with selective mutism. Worse yet, a travel ban--which labels Iran a "dangerous country"--has barred her parents from entering the US!
In order to help her parents immigrate, Poupeh must find a way to speak up for them during an interview with an embassy officer or risk being separated. This powerful, heart-warming graphic novel debut shows the bravery and courage of a young girl who will do anything to reunite her family.
Genres
Pages176
Released2025
LanguageEnglish
Publisherlittle bee books
ISBN9781499815283
SellerSimon & Schuster
Reviews
An emotionally compelling, insistently educative view of a challenging immigration experience.
