Red, White, and Whole: A Newbery Honor Novel in Verse about an Indian American Girl Navigating Identity and Grief

by Rajani LaRocca

We work hard, we dress modestly, we focus on what is important to succeed. That is why we came to this country, and we won’t waste our opportunity, or change who we are.

Because caring for other people is the biggest difference between a hero and a villain.

A hero is brave, but not without fear. Says what they believe is right. Works to make the world better. Acts out of love for others.

I have one life, a stream with many tributaries. The life given to me by my parents, a life filled with school and learning, family, and friends.

I have one life, where I try to merge all the places I’m from, India and America, mother and father, past, present, and future. I have one life. That’s all any of us gets. And I know that I will make my way. For all rivers lead to the same ocean, we all look upon the same sky. I will write my own story. Amma’s life, the one she gave to me, is in my heart, my veins, my blood. And she is everywhere.