First Crossing - by Donald R Gallo (Paperback)

About the Book

Ten unforgettable short stories reflect the stunning diversity of experience among teenagers from many countries who make the United States their new home. Includes tales by Pam Munoz Ryan, Minfong Ho, and Marie G. Lee.

Book Synopsis

"Stories by eleven well-known authors touch on a variety of teen experiences, with enough attitude and angst to speak to young adults anywhere. " -- School Library Journal

Fleeing from political violence in Venezuela, Amina and her family have settled in the United States. Sarah, adopted, is desperate to know her Korean birth parents. Adrian's friends have some spooky -- and hilarious -- misconceptions about his Romanian origins. Whether their transition is from Mexico to the United States or from Palestine to New Mexico, the characters in this anthology have all ventured far and have faced countless challenges. Each of these stories is unique, and each one has something to say to all of us.

Review Quotes

Newly transplanted teens will find the voices represented in this collection far more relevant than those echoing forth from the huddled masses of Ellis Island, and the American-born readers will gain insight from the palpable depictions.
--Booklist

The short-story format and multinational focus make this a boon for second-culture classrooms; the frank and edgy honesty makes for a timely read for others directly familiar with such experiences, and for those welcoming (or not) second-culture peers into their lives.
--Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, The

This book will easily make its way into ESL classes and will provide a bridge for American youth trying to understand students from other countries.
--Voice of Youth Advocates

Covering a wide range of cultural and economical backgrounds, these stories by 11 well-known authors touch on a variety of teen experiences, with enough attitude and heartfelt angst to speak to young adults anywhere.
--School Library Journal

About the Author

Editor Donald R. Gallo is a recipient of the ALAN Award for Outstanding Contributions to Young Adult Literature and the editor of several short story anthologies for teens, including the highly praised DESTINATION UNEXPECTED. The American Library Association includes his anthology SIXTEEN among the 100 Best Books for Young Adults.