The Fold, by An Na

Na’s second novel (YA) addresses the notions about Asian beauty and the prevalent eye surgery that make Asian eyes “more Western.” Joyce has to decide if she wants to have the eye surgery offered to her by her plastic-surgery-addicted aunt. Often compared as lesser than her beautiful older sister, Joyce didn’t even think about her appearance until she met the most handsome boy in her school.

A Step from Heaven, An Na

Young adult autobiographical novel of one family’s late 20th century emigration to America, living in poverty. Story of divided culture and backbreaking work by parents, who are mean to the child.