Shanghai Messenger

Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the feeling of being caught between two worlds or is preparing for a significant journey to meet extended family. It is a gentle balm for the child who feels like an outsider in their own skin, providing a mirror for those of multiracial heritage who wonder if they are enough of any one culture to truly belong. Xiao Mai travels from the United States to Shanghai to visit her relatives, navigating the complexities of language barriers, new foods, and a bustling city. Written in elegant free verse, the story explores themes of cultural identity, the power of ancestral connection, and the quiet bravery required to step into the unknown. It is perfectly pitched for children ages 8 to 12, offering a sophisticated yet accessible look at how we carry our homes with us wherever we go.