Gr 3–8—Thirteen-year-old Reha feels conflicted over her Indian American identity because of the expectations of
her family, the predominantly white spaces she inhabits during the week, and how to fit into both. When Reha's
mother falls seriously ill, the family must come together for an unimaginable future. With tragedy looming, Reha
figures out how to unite these parts of herself. This historical fiction novel in verse set in 1983 is a timely,
heartrending tale.

Newbery Honor book

Red, White and Whole is a powerful book in verse about bridging two cultures, family, community, and hope. As Reha tries to figure out where she belongs - in India or America -, her mother is diagnosed with leukemia. Reha had found herself becoming more distanced from her parents, but with her mother's illness she also feels removed from her friends as she copes with it.

Like the character in the story I was also 13 in 1983 so I enjoyed the music and pop culture references (MTV, Walkman, Star Wars).

This is a wonderful story - certainly elevates the middle school novel. It covers heavy topics and the words of Reha's mom may provoke tears, however, this is one of those books to recommend to the tweens in your life. ( )

This book, written in verse and laden with beautiful symbolism, is highly recommended. It describes a first-generation immigrant experience that many in America can relate to, as well as a powerful story of loss and grief. ( )

5/5 ( )

This made me sob. Toward the end of the book the mom dies of leukemia and a month later the daughter gets a letter from her. This kind of thing gets me every time.

Reha is 13 and graduates 8th grade in this story, but I think readers as young as 9 or 10 could enjoy this. There is some very light romance, but mostly it's about the relationship between Reha and her mother and how Reha feels about being Indian-American.

I would almost call this historical fiction because it takes place in the 1980s, but it didn't feel super historical other than the 80s music references.

This was a very quick read for me. It's a novel in verse and I'd guess the word count is closer to that of a short story. I thought the poems were effective. The heart of this book is Reha's internal life and poetry is a perfect form for that.

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