New From Here

Recommended Ages: 8-12

Written and Illustrated by Kelly Yang.

When the coronavirus pandemic hits Hong Kong, ten-year-old Knox Wei-Evans's mother makes a sudden decision to move him and his siblings back to California for safety, leaving Knox's father behind due to work commitments. With only two days to prepare for an international move, Knox faces the challenges of being the new kid at school. His classmates unfairly associate him with the virus because of his Asian heritage, intensifying his feelings of isolation. At home, Knox's mother loses her job and worries about their health insurance, while Knox's father is uncertain when he can reunite with them due to canceled flights. Additionally, Knox grapples with his tendency to blurt things out, complicating his social interactions. As racism surges during COVID-19, Knox strives to stand up against hate while finding his place in this new environment. He questions whether he can truly belong when feared, how to protect others while feeling like an outsider, and how to keep his family connected across oceans. In a world that feels chaotic, Knox learns that embracing his unique self is a powerful way to navigate these difficult times.