Almost American Girl is a 2020 graphic memoir by Robin Ha that tells the story of young Robin’s life after what was supposed to be a summer vacation in Alabama becomes a permanent move from South Korea to the United States. The book follows her struggles as she adjusts to a completely new culture, faces racism from peers, and learns to live with a traditional Korean stepfamily. The memoir also includes flashbacks to her childhood in Korea, where she was raised by a single mother—a situation often stigmatized in Korean society.

I enjoyed this book because Robin’s experiences reminded me of my own. When I first moved here, I faced many similar challenges. Like Robin, I didn’t know much English, and it was difficult to feel like I belonged. I often felt lonely and confused, just as she did. But over time, as my English improved and I made new friends, I started to feel more at home. Reading about Robin’s journey gave me hope and made me feel less alone. Her story shows that even when life feels unfamiliar and overwhelming, things can get better with time and effort.

I also appreciate how Robin’s relationship with her mother evolves throughout the book. At first, Robin doesn’t understand why her mother makes certain decisions, but later she begins to recognize the love and sacrifices behind them. This reminded me of my own relationship with my parents. It can be difficult to understand them sometimes, but I know they want what’s best for me.

I would rate this book 5 out of 5 stars because it spoke to me on a personal level. It’s an inspiring story about identity, family, and finding your place in a new world. I highly recommend Almost American Girl to anyone who has ever felt out of place, especially immigrants or students adjusting to a new country. The memoir teaches readers that with patience, courage, and self-acceptance, it is possible to overcome challenges and grow stronger.

English teacher Jay Bullock also shared his thoughts on the book.

“It’s been a few years since I read Almost American Girl, but I remember liking it,” Bullock said. “It seemed like a good representation of what it must be like to immigrate to the U.S. without much warning and without speaking much English, and to do that without being in a school that is welcoming to immigrants.

“But I think what I like most is the beautiful artwork. It is very unlike most graphic novels. You can tell that Robin Ha is trained as an artist and painter rather than as an illustrator—the art looks more like watercolor painting. So yes, I would happily recommend it to students who want to understand what it feels like to be an outcast or a lonely immigrant.”