Book 1 Post 1 - "American Like Me"

For my first book, I chose "American Like Me" by America Ferrera, anticipating a connection to my own cultural background. I prefer physical books, so I purchased a copy on Amazon last week and am currently about 60 pages into the book. As a Turkish individual born in China, I grew up as a minority in my hometown. When my parents immigrated to the United States, I was once again a minority. Thus, the stories in the book resonate deeply, articulating perfectly the tension between preserving one's heritage and blending into American society.

Ferrera and her co-authors provide insight into the nuanced emotions of self-discovery in a country where one might feel like an 'other.' The candid storytelling, which I've encountered so far, highlights the bravery required to navigate the landscape of cultural expectations. For example, Ferrera discusses her discomfort with her name in the classroom—a feeling I relate to due to the mispronunciation caused by the Chinese spelling on my passport. At a young age, I sincerely considered changing my name to something more conventional until my brother, who is eight years ahead of me, advised against it. His wisdom proved true; I now take pride in a unique name that leaves a lasting impression. I've come to understand that during our formative years, from elementary to middle school, it's challenging to appreciate our own culture amidst peer judgment. It's only with maturity that we recognize the beauty in our differences, each adding to the richness of our identities.