Red, White, and Whole

In this Newbery Honor Book, a heartfelt novel in verse, Indian American girl Reha grapples with her identity as her life is upended by her mother's leukemia diagnosis. Torn between her family’s cultural expectations and her own aspirations, Reha seeks to reconnect with her mother while aspiring to become a doctor despite her fear of blood. As she navigates these challenges, she learns about the complexities of love, loss, and the bonds that unite them. This poignant story by Rajani LaRocca explores resilience in the face of adversity and is a compelling read for those who appreciate deeply emotional narratives.