Two families begin a friendship when each adopts a Korean daughter. The Donaldsons, long established in the U.S., and the Yazdans, whose parents immigrated from Iran, mirror Tyler’s own history. (Her husband of 39 years was born in Iran.) She weaves the subtle effects of small misunderstandings and larger cultural stereotypes into the story and sensitizes the reader to the real and perceived cultural differences. The persistence of the families in pursuing friendship and establishing new, shared traditions is an encouragement to all who are trying to do the same.