Go Home

Olive and Gabe are planning a future together once she finishes high school and he feels established in a job. Their relationship has endured problems and now feels very secure. However, when Samir Paudel and his family move into a home across the street from Olive, everything changes. While Olive begins to accept the newcomers, Gabe displays anger and resentment not only toward the Paudels, but all immigrants in general. How can the couple overcome this deep-seated disagreement and difference in beliefs?

Olive, Gabe and Samir are all interesting characters, and the authors tell the story from the alternating viewpoints of Olive and Samir. Olive is open to new experiences and ideas while also trying to remain close to her family and to Gabe and his family. Gabe, on the other hand, is convinced he is right and has no wish to listen to anyone who suggests otherwise. While readers may dislike his hardline stance, the authors give readers clues as to what has shaped Gabe’s personality and way of thinking. Samir is doing his best to adapt to a new culture while trying to get an education and also support the rest of his family economically.

The authors pace the plot in such a way that readers know there is bound to be some sort of confrontation, and this tension keeps the story lively and interesting. Various “incidents” occur, and nerves become frayed on both sides. Will Gabe eventually physically fight with Samir, or will words be enough? Will Olive and Gabe be able to reconcile their major differences? By the very end of the story, readers finally have answers to their questions.

The novel seems realistic and deals with political questions about immigration and the left- and right-wing attitudes newcomers face in American society. The picture of Samir and his family also rings true. They have faced so much adversity and now want only to have safety, a home, and a new start in life.

The authors are well-equipped to take on such issues. Terry Farish has worked with a literacy program to support new Americans. Lochan Sharma is a Nepali immigrant whose parents are from Bhutan, just like Samir in the story. Thus, the author team knows both sides of the story from personal experience, and the book becomes a true reflection of both the immigrant experience and the efforts made to help newcomers become happy, active and contributing citizens.

Farish and Sharma bring important current social issues to light in Go Home which is exciting, engaging and well worth the read.