Everything I Never Told You

This novel about a Chinese American family living in 1970s small-town Ohio focusses on Lydia, the favorite child of Marilyn and James Lee. Her parents are determined that she will fulfill the dreams they were unable to pursue, but when Lydia’s body is found in the local lake, the family is sent into a spiral of trying to establish what each of their places is in the world and in the family. This moving and suspenseful story about family, secrets, longing, racism, and gender, has complex conflict, rich characterization, and literary use of point of view that will lead to rich discussion and activities. Useful as a whole class, independent, or literature circle novel study in grades 11-12.