The Trouble Begins, by Linda Himelblau

Du and his grandmother recently left Vietnam and traveled to California to reunite with the family they haven't seen since Du was a baby. So far, Du hates a lot of things about America:

• His old, nosy neighbor called the police when Du picked berries from his yard
• The school cafeteria food and American frozen food are both disgusting
• The principal doesn't understand that being quiet doesn't mean you are disrespectful
• Americans say stuff is free when it's not
• His name in English means 'dog poop'
  

His older brother and two older sisters, who speak perfect English and totally understand the American way of life, think Du just messes around all the time and isn't thankful for his new home. Du slowly starts to realize that maybe he should try harder to impress his father, who is constantly disappointed or angry with him.

Himelblau's novel provides young readers with a heightened awareness of the norms in other countries. While other students may speak different languages or do things that appear weird, they are probably facing the same fear and insecurities as everyone else. This is also a great book for any kid who has ever felt like an outsider. Just like Du, we can all discover our inner Dragon and overcome life's challenges.

Himelblau, L. (2005). The Trouble Begins. New York: Delacorte Press. ISBN 0-385-73273-2