About This Book
Reach for this book when your teenager is beginning to ask deep questions about identity, heritage, and the courage it takes to be true to oneself in the face of societal pressure. It is a sophisticated bridge for conversations about LGBTQ+ history and the immigrant experience in America. Set against the backdrop of 1950s San Francisco during the Red Scare, the story follows seventeen year old Lily Hu as she navigates the thrill of first love with her classmate Kath and the looming threat of her father's deportation. The book masterfully explores themes of intersectionality, duty to family, and the search for belonging. Parents should note that while the romance is handled with great tenderness, it includes a realistic look at the era's prejudices and the vulnerability of queer spaces. It is an excellent choice for mature teens seeking a rich, atmospheric, and deeply grounded historical narrative.
