At not even twelve years old, Ruozhen Ma imbues her writing with a charm and insightfulness well beyond her years.

“I don’t know what I want to be when I grow up. I haven’t discovered my talent and interest yet. I feel like I am digging in the dark tunnel and constantly bumping into tree roots.”

Ruozhen Ma’s debut novel, “Turning the Corner,” provides an intimate and truthful glimpse into the challenges and triumphs experienced by a Chinese American girl navigating fifth grade. With the unique perspective of being the same age as her characters, Ma captures the anxieties and realities of this transitional year, which can be particularly daunting given recent societal disruptions caused by the pandemic.

The story revolves around Ruozhen, a diligent and hardworking student, who is constantly striving to excel in various areas of her life, such as piano, swimming, and writing. Despite her efforts, she often finds herself comparing unfavorably to her peers. However, as 2022 marks the year of the Tiger in the Chinese zodiac, Ruozhen’s mother provides her with a year’s supply of lucky red underwear, instilling hope for a positive change in her luck. Supported by her caring parents and friends Orange and Olive, Ruozhen embarks on a journey to win the school writing contest, overcome the embarrassment of choosing an opposite-gender partner for a class project, and make the right elective choice for her upcoming middle school years.

Ma’s writing delves into Ruozhen’s emotions and reactions, prioritizing the internal landscape over narrative events. Her prose exhibits a poetic quality, infused with lyricism and vivid imagery. At such a young age, Ma grapples with profound questions about personal success and the pursuit of meaningful endeavors. She employs creative metaphors and similes, comparing puberty to a lava monster and the feeling of ostracization to being “a plastic bird in a flock of peacocks.” However, there is room for further exploration and expansion of these evocative images within the narrative.

“Turning the Corner” not only captures the trials and tribulations of elementary school but also serves as a testament to Ma’s ability to authentically depict the experiences of her peers. Her close connection to the subject matter enables her to present an accurate and engaging perspective. This book is highly recommended for elementary school students who are preparing to transition to middle school, as it offers relatable insights and empowers young readers to approach the challenges of growing up with resilience and determination.

In summary, “Turning the Corner” by Ruozhen Ma is an honest and captivating portrayal of fifth-grade life, infused with themes of perseverance, cultural identity, and personal growth. Ma’s writing style, while already vibrant, could benefit from further exploration of imaginative imagery. Nevertheless, this book is an excellent choice for young readers embarking on their own journeys of transition and self-discovery.