Introduction

There are 325 languages spoken in the United States and over a million adult immigrants enrolled in federally funded English classes. Most are beginners.

In this collection of poems, an ESL teacher and former expat illustrates her students' struggles and triumphs by addressing their linguistic challenges and culture shock alongside broader social issues such as poverty, spousal abuse, religious traditions, illegal immigration, education, the role of women in other cultures, and the mental scars of war.

Their stories are heart-breaking, uplifting, and tinged with unexpected humor that shines a new light on their place in America.