New From Here by Kelly Yang

Title: New From Here

Author: Kelly Yang

Genre: Fiction, children's

Knox is a 10-year-old kid living in Hong Kong with his parents and two siblings. When the COVID-19 pandemic begins, Knox’s parents decide to move their family to America. Knox’s parents used to live in California before moving to Hong Kong before Knox was born. Unfortunately, Knox’s dad has to stay behind because he has to work. Knox has to rush to fit his most important belongings in a suitcase. Once they arrive in the U.S., Knox and his big brother, Bowen, are told they must share a bedroom in the house. Knox is used to having his own space and Bowen isn’t nice to Knox, telling Knox he gets only a little space in the room.

School is difficult for Knox because he has a tendency to “blurt things out” and not sit still in his chair at school. He is coming to recognize that he has ADHD. The story follows the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic and Knox reacts to each news story about the virus. The book also touches on anti-Asian sentiments related to the COVID-19 pandemic. Overall, the story focuses more on Knox’s daily challenges like keeping his brother from driving him nuts, finding friends at his new school, and learning more about ADHD. The book is a good pick for children or younger teens who enjoy realistic fiction. The story is based on the author’s real experiences in 2020!

- Elizabeth

Check out New From Here by Kelly Yang @ the library!