This graphic memoir is perfect. I loved it, even when the content was dark and emotional. The author does an excellent job balancing the story between her life and the life of her parents. I love how she used the narration and illustration to go back and forth between asking questions of her parents in the present day and sharing her parents’ memories from the past. 

So many times I feel like graphic memoirs can feel a bit rushed. This one is just the right length with enough detail throughout. The art style is consistent but it also feels like it adapts to the mood of various events. 

I loved the ending so much. Bui synthesizes her feelings about her family without simplifying those feelings. I am blown away by this retelling of her family’s trauma and journey as refugees. This isn’t a light read, but it is a beautiful one.