Inside Out & Back Again (fiction)
​Thanhha Lai (2007)

THE A5 BOOK REVIEW

Inside Out and Back Again is a touching story of a ten year old girl named Hà who is forced to flee Saigon with her family during the Vietnam War to a very foreign land, America.  She recounts the fear, confusion, desperation and hope as the family escapes, crosses the sea, and as Hà tries to adjust to an utterly different life in a small town in Alabama.  It is a special story, made more childlike and authentic by being told in verse.  This coming-of-age novel, based on the personal experience of the author Thanhha Lai, provides a very touching view into the plight of refugees, providing a wonderful lesson and an entertaining read.  Inside Out and Back Again is a Newbery Honor Book and a winner of the National Book Award.  Recommended for ages 10+.
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A5 RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THOSE WHO LIKED THIS BOOK

GREAT QUOTES:

“Oh, my daughter, at times you have to fight, but preferably not with your fists.”
- Thanhha Lai, Inside Out & Back Again

“People living on others' goodwill cannot afford political opinions.”
- Thanhha Lai, Inside Out & Back Again

INTERESTING LINKS:

  • Read the School Library Journal's 2011 review by Elizabeth Bird of Inside Out & Back Again.
  • NPR also has a nice review of the book and the experience of Vietnamese refugees.
  • Read the interview with the author from the National Book Foundation.
  • The official site is the best source of information on the author, Thanhha Hai.  Click here for more information.

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