A Pho Love Story
Vietnamese American teens find love in heartwarming romcom.
Kids say
Based on 1 review
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that Loan Le's A Pho Love Story is a heartwarming romantic comedy about Bao Nguyen and Linh Mai, two Vietnamese American teens who find love despite their families' long-standing feud. Readers will learn about Vietnamese culture, food, history, and the importance of communication and courage. Sometimes the Nguyens and the Mais spread hurtful rumors about each other. There's one racist encounter in a restaurant and a trolling review on Yelp. Characters have crushes, kiss, and hold hands. Strong language includes "s--t," "f--k," "ass," "hell," "Jesus," "frickin." There's also one use of "FOBs," which stands for "fresh off the boat." Adults drink Heineken, Corona, and wine at parties.
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What's the Story?
A PHO LOVE STORY follows Bao Nguyen and Linh Mai, two Vietnamese American teens whose families own competing Vietnamese restaurants across the street from each other. Ever since they were little kids, their parents have told them not to interact with each other. But things change when Bao sees a very stressed out Linh outside of her family's restaurant one night and offers to help. After that night, Bao and Linh start working together for the school newspaper, and their friendship inevitably turns into a budding romance. What happens when their parents find out about their relationship? And more important, will their families' feud stop them from being together?
Is It Any Good?
This heartwarming romantic comedy explores food, family, and identity, making it a must-read for teens. Readers will love the charming characters and the many mouthwatering descriptions of Vietnamese dishes throughout the book. While most of A Pho Love Story revolves around Bao's and Linh's sweet, supportive, and swoon-worthy "star-crossed lovers" relationship, it also explores how they try to meet their parents' expectations while pursuing their passions. One of the most moving moments occurs when Bao uses his love of words to bring the community together, including the Mais and the Nguyens, by writing a powerful article condemning racism. As the tale progresses and the reason for the Mais' and the Nguyens' long-standing feud is revealed, teens will see the importance of courage and communication.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the various kinds of diversity in A Pho Love Story. Why are diverse representations important in children's and young adult literature?
Does the romance portrayed seem realistic and relatable? Do young adult romance novels help readers sort out their feelings and learn how to communicate, or do they create false expectations about teen relationships?
How do the characters demonstrate communication and courage? Why are these important character strengths?
Book Details
- Author: Loan Le
- Genre: Contemporary Fiction
- Topics: Activism, Arts and Dance, Great Boy Role Models, Great Girl Role Models, High School
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers
- Publication date: February 9, 2021
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 12 - 18
- Number of pages: 416
- Available on: Paperback, Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, iBooks, Kindle
- Last updated: July 26, 2021
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