Outsider Kids [Parachute Kids]
by Betty C. Tang; illus. by the author
Intermediate, Middle School    Graphix/Scholastic    288 pp.
4/25    9781338832723    $24.99
Paper ed.  9781338832716    $14.99
e-book ed.  9781338832730    $14.99

Tang continues the saga of the Lin family begun in the graphic novel Parachute Kids (rev. 5/23). In 1981, the family left Taiwan in search of a better life, making their home in a Los Angeles suburb. When the parents returned to Taiwan to earn a living, the children—Feng-Ling (Ann), Ke-Gāng (Jason), and Jia-Xi (Jessie)—were forced to fend for themselves and adapt to American culture. Here the three siblings face challenges including complicated relationships rife with drama and an overshadowing and persistent anxiety due to their undocumented immigration status. Sixth grader Ann auditions for a summer music youth band; high-schooler Jason develops a crush on classmate Alex; and Jessie stresses over getting into Harvard. Meanwhile, their spoiled cousin Ting-Ting (Josephine), a violin virtuosa, arrives from Taiwan and flaunts her cosmopolitan education, stylish fashion, linguistic fluency, and acceptance into the prestigious Music Institute of Los Angeles. However, Josephine must give up her place at M.I.L.A. and return to Taiwan when her parents decide to divorce; she takes out her disappointment on the Lins, creating a very tense situation for her cousins and necessitating a nerve-wracking overnight move. Vibrantly colored panels add occasional comic relief while exploring themes of family, friendship, belonging, queer sexuality, and the sense of loss that reflects true-to-life immigrant experiences. Overall, perseverance and the enduring triumph of the human spirit propel the Lin siblings on their journey to realizing the American dream.

From the May/June 2025 issue of The Horn Book Magazine.