60 pages 2 hours read

Thanhha Lai

Listen, Slowly

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2015

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Before You Read

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Listen, Slowly by Thanhha Lai presents a touching exploration of identity, heritage, and family through a young Vietnamese American girl's journey. Praised for its rich cultural insights and lyrical prose, the novel also faces critiques for its sometimes slow pacing. Ultimately, the emotional depth and relatable themes make it a worthwhile read for middle-grade audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Listen, Slowly?

Readers who enjoyed Inside Out & Back Again by Thanhha Lai or The Thing About Luck by Cynthia Kadohata will cherish Listen, Slowly. This novel appeals to middle-grade readers interested in themes of cultural identity, family, and self-discovery, particularly those who enjoy heartfelt stories rooted in personal growth and multicultural experiences.

Recommended

Reading Age

8-12years

Lexile Level

800L

Book Details

Genre
Realistic Fiction
Asian Literature
Themes
Relationships: Family
Life/Time: Coming of Age
Relationships: Grandparents
Topics
Grief / Death
Food
Immigration / Refugee