Different Pond, A

Phi and his father, Vietnamese immigrants in America, get up early and go to the pond to try and catch dinner. As they fish, the father reminisces about his life in Vietnam but a good catch interrupts his memories and they return home. This compelling picture book for K-5 depicts the reality of the family’s fight to survive in their new country. The powerful text is accompanied by muted illustrations that capture the loving family and their difficult life, yet also represent hope, love, and a will to survive. Useful for read-aloud, partner, or independent reading, the book deals with refugees, immigrants, poverty, family traditions, responsibility, pride, honour, fitting in, and sacrifice.