“Measuring Up” by Lily LaMotte: Middle Grade Graphic Novel

Middle Grade • Graphic Novel • Immigration • Family • Cultural Identity

Author: Lily LaMotte

Illustrator: Ann Xi

Genre: Graphic Novel

Recommended Ages: 8 - 12

Summary:

When twelve-year-old Cici and her family move from Taiwan to Seattle, she finds herself in a world that feels both exciting and unfamiliar. She misses her grandmother, A-má, terribly—the smells of home-cooked meals, the sound of her voice, and the comforting sense of belonging. Life in America is filled with challenges: Cici struggles with the language barrier, feels out of place among new classmates, and worries that her favorite Taiwanese foods seem “too different.”

When she learns about a kids’ cooking competition, Cici sees a chance to win the prize money to bring A-má to the United States for her birthday. With determination and creativity, she enters the contest—but quickly realizes that competing in an American-style cooking show means more than just following recipes. She must learn to blend flavors, cultures, and confidence.

As the contest heats up, Cici learns about teamwork, friendship, and what it truly means to “measure up.” Through her love of cooking, she discovers how to stay connected to her roots while finding her own place in her new home. The story beautifully explores how identity, family, and food can bridge cultures and hearts.

My Thoughts:

As a future elementary school librarian, Measuring Up resonated with me on so many levels. It’s not only a story about cooking—it’s about courage, culture, and connection. Through Cici’s experience, we see how difficult it can be for children to navigate new environments while holding onto pieces of their past. That feeling of wanting to belong while staying true to yourself is something every child can relate to, whether they’ve moved across the world or just to a new classroom.

From a librarian’s perspective, I love how Measuring Up opens space for conversations about identity and empathy in ways that feel natural for kids. The combination of visual storytelling and heartfelt dialogue makes it accessible to reluctant readers and engaging for strong ones alike. It’s also a reminder that graphic novels are powerful tools for literacy—they blend art, expression, and text in ways that speak to all types of learners.

This book also connects beautifully to the idea of “mirrors and windows” in children’s literature. Cici’s story serves as a mirror for children who share similar cultural experiences and as a window for others to learn and understand. As a future librarian, I hope to fill my shelves with stories like this—books that help children see themselves, celebrate differences, and discover that belonging can take many forms.

Measuring Up reminded me why I chose this profession: because books have the power to build bridges, inspire curiosity, and remind every child that their story matters.

Themes:

• Cultural Identity: Finding balance between Taiwanese heritage and American life.

• Family & Love: The emotional bond between Cici and A-má drives the story.

• Perseverance & Growth: Cici’s determination in both cooking and adapting to change.

• Belonging: Learning to feel at home in a new country and within herself.

• Friendship: Overcoming differences and finding true allies.

Why this book is important for Diversity and Inclusion:

Measuring Up offers beautiful cultural representation through Cici’s Taiwanese American experience, showing how food, family, and identity intertwine. This graphic novel highlights the emotional journey of immigration—wanting to fit in while holding onto the flavors and traditions of home. Cici’s cooking competition becomes a powerful lens for discussing cultural pride and how sharing food builds understanding. For Taiwanese and immigrant readers, Cici is an affirming mirror; for all readers, the story is a tender window into the strength, love, and creativity within immigrant families.

Measuring Up: Graphic Novel for Library Integration:

Measuring Up is a wonderful addition to any elementary or middle grade library collection that celebrates identity, family, and cultural connection through food. It offers rich opportunities for discussion, programming, and cross-curricular learning that tie naturally into both literacy and social-emotional growth.

For librarians, this graphic novel provides an accessible entry point for readers who love visual storytelling while still exploring meaningful themes like immigration, belonging, and intergenerational love. It’s also a great recommendation for students who may be transitioning between chapter books and longer middle grade novels.

Programming & Display Ideas

• Cultural Food Stories Display: Pair Measuring Up with titles like A Place at the Table by Saadia Faruqi and Meera’s Friends Are Different by Mary Ann Fraser to highlight food as a bridge between cultures.

• “Family Recipes” Activity: Invite students to share a recipe or favorite food from home and display their stories alongside the book.

• Graphic Novel Book Club: Feature Measuring Up as part of a discussion on how illustrations can convey emotion, community, and connection.

• STEAM Connection: Tie into cooking and measuring activities—perfect for makerspaces or library-led “Cooking is Science!” programs.

Curricular Connections

• Language Arts: Personal narrative writing or memoir projects about home and family.

• Social Studies: Exploring cultural traditions, immigration, and identity.

• SEL: Discussions around empathy, friendship, and resilience.

Librarian Reflection:

Measuring Up is a wonderful blend of heart and flavor. I love how Lily LaMotte uses food to explore deeper themes of identity, love, and courage. Cici’s story resonates with many children who balance multiple cultures or navigate big life changes. The vibrant illustrations by Ann Xu bring warmth and authenticity to every page. It’s a story that celebrates heritage while showing that fitting in doesn’t mean giving up who you are.

Measuring Up by Lily LaMotte —Graphic Novel