Book Review: A Step from Heaven

Module 6

1. BILIOGRAPHY

Na, An. A Step from Heaven. Asheville, Front Street, 2001. ISBN 1-886910-58-8

2. PLOT SUMMARY

When Young Ju and her family emigrate to the United States from Korea, she at first mistakes it for heaven. However, she finds that America is full of hardships as she and her family struggle to survive financially, adjust to a new culture, and yet remain true to their heritage.

3. CRITICALY ANALYSIS

When Young Ju leaves Korea with her family at the young age of four, she is confused about many things she encounters in America. On the plane ride over, Young Ju mistakenly thinks that they are on their way to heaven. Although she is told that America is not heaven, but a step from heaven, Young Ju quickly learns that it is a place full of things that she does not like. From the strong carbonated drinks, to the strange language she must learn, Young Ju struggles to fit into her new life. Her family is constantly annoyed with her “why” questions that she asks in order to understand. Na takes us through Young Ju’s life from the early age of four all the way through the beginning of college. During those years, Young Ju learns the language and culture of the Americans, yet her parents struggle to adjust. Her father and mother argue, and Young Ju and her brother Joon begin to fear her father as he becomes abusive and an alcoholic. After years of confusion, pain, and bitterness, Young Ju finally seeks help for their family, and their father is arrested by the police, and then returns to Korea alone. Young Ju’s story is one that many readers can relate to. As she and her brother grow up, they fail to see why their father is so distant, harsh, and unloving towards them. Although their mother initially blames Young Ju for calling the police, she is later thankful that Young Ju did the right thing and apologizes for blaming Young Ju for her mistake.

This novel is told in 1^st person point of view, from Young Ju’s perspective. Through this style of writing, the reader is able to glean the curiosity and confusion that Young Ju has as she is growing up. It also reflects the age of Young Ju. Just before they leave for America, Young Ju gets a perm. When she arrives at school, only one boy has curly hair. She worries, “I hope they do not think I am a boy.” As Young Ju matures throughout the story, so do her thoughts, “There are no boxes in our living room. Only hard wooden floors and an intricate, diamond-shaped design.” Young Ju’s growing up is evidenced by the style of writing, setting and passing of time, and the decisions that she makes.

4. AWARDS AND REVIEW EXCERPTS

*2002 Michael L. Printz Award

*School Library Journal: “A beautifully written affecting work.”

*Horn Book: “An Na displays an astonishing and memorable force.”

5. CONNECTIONS

*A staple of Young Ju’s diet is rice. Discuss with students what their family eats the most of and why they eat it. How does the culture affect their eating habits? Have each student bring in samples for the class to try.

*If your class includes a diverse group of students, discuss Young Ju and her family’s struggle to fit in a new culture. How have the students handled the situation? What has made it easier, or harder to adjust?

*Read other books written by An Na:

Na, An. WAIT FOR ME. ISBN 0399242759

Na, An. THE FOLD. ISBN 0399242767