Be Prepared

In the beginning of the novel, Vera is particularly fixated on fitting in and being seen as a “typical” American girl. Based on her perspective, what are the characteristics of American girlhood?

How does the graphic novel depict the experiences of being an immigrant? How does it illustrate the ways that Vera’s Russian heritage impacts her identity? Use visual and textual evidence to support your claims.

How does Vera’s time at the ORRA summer camp exemplify the coming-of-age narrative? In what ways does Vera grow and change as a result of her experiences at camp?