Red, White, and Whole

Reach for this book when your child feels like they are living two different lives, one at home and one at school, or when your family is navigating the heavy emotional toll of a parent's serious illness. Set in the 1980s, this novel in verse follows Reha, an Indian American girl who struggles to bridge the gap between her traditional household and her American social life. When her mother is diagnosed with leukemia, Reha's internal conflict shifts into a desperate, heartfelt mission to be the perfect daughter in hopes of a miracle. It is a deeply moving exploration of identity, grief, and the unbreakable bond between mother and daughter. While it deals with intense sadness, it provides a safe space for children ages 8 to 12 to process complex feelings about heritage and loss. Parents will value how it honors the immigrant experience while offering a roadmap for navigating family crisis with love and resilience.