Helpful Score: 8
I usually enjoy a good book about clashing cultures and complex human relationships, but this book just didn't do much for me at all. I was annoyed by the cultural stereotypes and frustrated by the lack of focus on any one particular character. I had to force myself to finish, not a very satisfying read.
Helpful Score: 7
Masterfully written tale of what it means to be American -- the author really gets into the heads of her characters and we feel their joy, pain, & anxiety. Parents who have adopted children, especially from foreign nations, will relate particularly well, as will anyone who has emigrated from another nation to live in the U.S. A surprisingly fast read.
Helpful Score: 5
Despite trying several times, I just couldn't get into this book.
Helpful Score: 4
As a person who was adopted from Korea as an infant, I eagerly anticipated this book. Unfortunately, I did not find much to relate to. The adopted Korean daughters were the only well-adjusted characters. The story instead focused on their parents and grandparents, who I found to be irritating and unlikeable. I have not read any of Anne Tyler's books, but if they are all like this one I will give them a pass!
Helpful Score: 3
While this is not my favorite book by Tyler, it still retained her wonderful signature style. The vivid portrait she paints of both American families and immigrant-American families will keep you interested.
