Grain of Rice, A

Thirteen-year-old Yen, her mother, and siblings survived the war in Vietnam but when their home is struck by a monsoon and a flood, coupled with the problems facing post-War Vietnam, Mother feels they must flee the country. She arranges passage on a ship headed for Malaysia but on board, the family suffers illness, crowding, violence, and a pirate attack before the survivors are rescued. Loosely based on the author’s life, this engaging novel demonstrates the importance of community, humility, sacrifice, and helping others in need. Suitable as a class study or read-aloud so teachers can facilitate discussion of sensitive subjects, or part of a literature circle for older students.