I really enjoyed this not so typical coming-of-age novel that entails the life of Victor Chin, a Chinese, teenage immigrant who has to come to terms with not only Hansen's disease AKA leprosy but the chaos of feelings that a typical teenager goes through. Throw in the upheaval of moving from the only home and family he knows and any reader will become engulfed in Victor's life through the amazing writing of Wendy Chin-Tanner. Victor goes through all the ups and downs of self-confidence, loyalty, loss, romantic feelings and friendships while trying to maintain his health as well as realizing his own wants in his life. Definitely not an easy feat for anyone.
I would recommend readers from teenage age to adulthood to read this novel as it touches upon a history that many can learn about and yet still relate to. Who can one trust? Does age, race, social status or even a common disease have a say on friendships? Will the choices one makes for themselves benefit or harm the ones you care for?