Lucky Fish

Aimee Nezhukumatathil

January 15, 2011

Lucky Fish, a novel by Aimee Nezhukumatathil, tells the story of a biracial Filipino American family living in a small town in Iowa. Luce, the protagonist, is a young girl struggling to adjust to her father's strict parenting style. Her mother, a library book shelver, is a source of comfort, while Luce's friendship with a Japanese girl named Rio provides an unexpected refuge. Luce attempts to find her identity in a world that doesn't quite understand her, often feeling like an outsider. As the novel progresses, Luce discovers that the roots of her family tree travel much farther than Iowa, and her explorations reveal a complex and beautiful narrative.The novel is about identity, family, perseverance, and self-discovery. It focuses on Luce’s journey to learn about her heritage and what it means to be Filipino-American. Nezhukumatathil explores the difficulties of family dynamics, understanding generational differences, and navigating cultural identity in her work. She explores these themes with vivid descriptions and characters that jump off the page.Nezhukumatathil uses her trademark lyrical prose in her novel, weaving a lyrical spell that captures the beauty of the Filipino-American lifestyle. In Lucky Fish, Nezukumatathil offers an intimate portrayal of the Filipino experience and the wonder of discovery. It is an emotional journey of heartbreak, hope, and love that readers of all ages are sure to enjoy.