This book is quite sad. There is death, abuse, loss, immigration as a refugee, and the horrors of war in the Congo. It is about love, and music, and what makes you feel alive. It's about making your own family. It's a little about Moebius Syndrome, where your facial muscles are paralyzed. I loved how we read the story from two different perspectives. I don't know if I really felt a strong connection with any of the characters in particular, but I enjoyed my stay in their world.