Girl in Translation

Although it was often a harrowing read, I enjoyed Girl in Translation by Jean Kwok which is set in New York in the 1990s.  Kimberley and her mother emigrate from Hong Kong with the "help" of Kimberley's Aunt Paula. When they arrive they are full of optimism for the "better" life America promises them.  However, they are terribly exploited by Aunt Paula who has them work in a sweat shop with terrible conditions.  Aunt Paula rents them a flat in a condemned building where they fight for survival along with the other residents - cockroaches, mice, and rats.  The New York winters are particularly brutal.  They are compelled to rely on Aunt Paula's "charity" as they repay the cost of bringing them to America.  However, Kimberley has a great asset - her brain.  The conditions shown in the story are not far from the truth.  This type of exploitation has gone for many years and will be happening today somewhere.  Well written, compelling reading. 41/2/5