Fourth Grade Journey

A Fourth Grade Teacher's Journey Through the World of Books

Sunday, May 2, 2021

Red, White, and Whole by Rajani LaRocca

How I Heard About It:
*This novel has been on my radar for quite some time.  Reader after reader after reading posted positive and uplifting messages about the story via social media.  I finally bit the bullet and downloaded the audio version of the book on Audible.  What a wonderful experience it was.  


What It Is About - FIVE Things You Need to Know:
*Reha is the only Indian American girl at her school.  

*She tries to fit in the best she can, while maintaining the expectations and "rules" of her family at home.

*As much as she would like to relate to her mother, she finds herself worlds away from her.

*When her mother shares unexpected and difficult news, Reha finds her own world turned upside down.

*She does everything she can to help her mother get well and be the daughter she thinks her mother wants and needs.


What I Thought Of It - Five Observations/Reflections:
*The rave reviews from previous readers were all spot on.  This is a tremendous story!

*The audio version was strong, entertaining, and completely engaging.

*I enjoyed getting to know Reha and "listen" to her navigate the two worlds she is trying to fit in.

*There were many emotional and difficult scenes to listen to and I found tears in my eyes on more than one occasion.  

*Reha's story was told via free-verse and fit perfectly with the plot and characters.  


Who Should Read It:
*The novel should be in all fourth, fifth, and sixth grade classrooms along with the middle-school setting.  So many young readers will enjoy and be moved by the touching, personal, and important story.  I also think adult readers will find this an extremely satisfying reading experience.  Happy Reading!  


Rating:
   4 STARS out of 5 Stars








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