WITH TWICE THE LOVE, DESSIE MEI

A spirited girl processes challenging feelings around change, grief, identity, family, and adoption, all triggered by her family’s move.

Dessie Mei Breedlove has already experienced one momentous transition: from an orphanage in China to her white American adoptive home. Now she must transfer schools in the middle of sixth grade. She knows that they’ve moved to Seattle to help Grammy, who’s struggling with dementia, but she’d still rather have stayed put. Dessie’s first day in her new school starts off with kids confusing her with another Asian girl. But when Dessie gets a good look at Donna Lee, she realizes it’s not just another microaggression—it’s like looking in the mirror. Could the girls be twins separated at birth? As they navigate this unusual situation, Dessie and Donna quickly bond, but before long, cultural differences threaten their relationship (Donna’s adoptive family is Taiwanese). On top of that, Dessie faces bullying friend drama, racism, and imposter syndrome, plus her mother’s insecurities. Thankfully, connections with caring adults and her own introspection help her accept herself and use her voice to make “good trouble.” The sheer number of issues packed into this volume could be overwhelming, but the storyline is clear, thanks to well-crafted writing. Many tweens will relate to Dessie’s turbulent emotions and insecurities and her experimentation with various personalities. Readers will root for her as she grows.

Universal themes of identity and belonging radiate in this exploration of international transracial adoption.