Book details
PAPER DAUGHTER
Description
Maggie Chen's journalist father has fired her imagination with the thrill of the newsroom, and when her father is killed, she is determined to keep his dreams alive by interning at the newspaper. While assisting on her first story, Maggie learns that her father is suspected of illegal activity, and knows she must clear his name. Drawn to Seattle's Chinatown, she discovers things that are far from what she expected: secrets, lies, and a connection to the Chinese Exclusion Era. Using all of her newspaper instincts and resources, Maggie is forced to confront her ethnicity—and a family she never knew. This edition includes a guide for book group discussions and classroom use.
Age
11-12
Text complexity
proficient
Length
224 pages
Why to read
- Cultural Insight: 'Paper Daughter' offers readers a glimpse into the Chinese-American experience, exploring themes of immigration, identity, and the challenges of assimilating into a new culture. It provides a valuable perspective on the historical and personal impact of these issues.
- Historical Context: The book is set in the 1920s, a period of significant change and development in American history. Readers interested in this era will find 'Paper Daughter' to be an engaging way to understand the social and political climate of the time, particularly regarding immigration policies like the Chinese Exclusion Act.
- Character Development: Jeanette Ingold crafts a compelling protagonist in Maggie Chen, whose journey of self-discovery and resilience is both inspiring and relatable. Readers will be drawn to her story as she navigates the complexities of family secrets and personal growth.
- Engaging Plot: 'Paper Daughter' combines elements of mystery and drama as Maggie uncovers the truth about her father's past. The narrative is well-paced and keeps readers engaged with twists and revelations that build to a satisfying conclusion.