In the Beautiful Country

For fans of Jasmine Warga and Thanhhà Lại, this is a stunning novel in verse about a young Taiwanese immigrant to America who is confronted by the stark difference between dreams and reality.

Anna can’t wait to move to the beautiful country—the Chinese name for America. Although she’s only ever known life in Taiwan, she can’t help but brag about the move to her family and friends.

But the beautiful country isn’t anything like Anna pictured. Her family can only afford a cramped apartment, she’s bullied at school, and she struggles to understand a new language. On top of that, the restaurant that her parents poured their savings into is barely staying afloat. The version of America that Anna is experiencing is nothing like she imagined. How will she be able to make the beautiful country her home?

This lyrical and heartfelt story, inspired by the author’s own experiences, is about resilience, courage, and the struggle to make a place for yourself in the world.

“Beautifully written. A moving historical fiction book that is valuable for all readers.” - School Library Journal (starred review)

"Vivid, heartbreaking, and hopeful in all the right ways.” - Gene Luen Yang, award-winning author of American Born Chinese

“Deftly touches on complex issues. A powerfully candid and soulful account of an immigrant experience.” - Kirkus Reviews

"Kuo paints a vivid story of interpersonal bonds and persistence.” - Publishers Weekly

“Anna’s candid first-person narrative makes this first novel an absorbing and ultimately moving book.” - Booklist

“Emotional. Full of vivid imagery.” - Horn Book Magazine