The Silence That Binds Us

New York Times bestselling author Joanna Ho’s debut YA novel explores themes of racism, classism, loss, friendship, and mental health in an achingly powerful book that will challenge closely held beliefs. Perfect for fans of The Astonishing Color of After and I Am Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter.

Joanna Ho, author of the New York Times bestseller Eyes that Kiss in the Corners, delivers an exquisite, heart-rending debut young adult novel that will inspire all to speak truth to power.

In the face of injustice will you speak up or stay silent?

Maybelline Chen isn't the Chinese Taiwanese American daughter her mother expects her to be. She doesn't like math, she’s always forgets her jacket, and she doesn’t have a summer internship lined up. Her beloved brother, Danny, on the other hand, has just been admitted to Princeton. But Danny secretly struggles with depression and when he dies by suicide, May's world is shattered.

In the aftermath, racist accusations are hurled against May's parents for putting too much “pressure” on him. May’s father tells her to put her head down. Instead, May challenges these ugly stereotypes through her writing. Yet the consequences of speaking out run much deeper than anyone could foresee. Who gets to tell our stories and who gets silenced? It’s up to May to take back the narrative.

• Paperback
• Ages 14+ yrs

Joanna Ho is the award-winning and New York Times bestselling author of Eyes That Kiss in the Corners; Eyes That Speak to the Stars; Eyes That Weave the World's Wonders; Playing at the Border: A Story of Yo-Yo Ma; One Day; Say My Name; and The Silence that Binds Us, which received the Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature, Young Adult Honor. She has been an English teacher, a dean, a vice principal, and a professional development mastermind. Her passion for equity in books and education is matched only by her love of homemade chocolate chip cookies, outdoor adventures, and dance parties with her kids. Visit her at joannahowrites.com.