Question 1

What inspired you to write this book?

Accepted Answer

I wanted to share my family's story of immigrating from Haiti to America and overcoming many challenges to build a successful life here. Though our journey was difficult at times, it represents the resilience and drive of so many immigrants looking to improve their lives in a new country.

Question 2

What were some of the biggest hardships your family faced in Haiti that led to your eventual immigration?

Accepted Answer

We dealt with a lot of poverty and lack of access to education and jobs. My parents worked tirelessly just to provide food and shelter for us, but they dreamed of a better future where my siblings and I could get a quality education and have more opportunities. The unstable political climate and natural disasters in Haiti were also motivators for seeking a more secure life abroad.

Question 3

How did your family manage to immigrate to the United States?

Accepted Answer

It was a long process that took many years. My dad was the first person in the family that came to America in 1970. He applied for the visa lottery program and was luckily selected. But then it took several more years of paperwork, interviews, medical checks and money to finally get approval for the rest of the family to come to America. It was a complex, difficult journey but we persevered through faith and determination.

Question 4

What were your first impressions when you arrived in the U.S. as a teenager?

Accepted Answer

I was filled with equal parts fear and wonder. Everything seemed so big, busy and unfamiliar. I didn't know any English, so I couldn't understand what people said. But I also remember being awestruck by things like grocery stores filled with endless food, electricity that never went out, and being able to drink water straight from the sink without getting sick. It was a dramatic adjustment.

Question 5

How did you eventually adapt and thrive in American school and society?

Accepted Answer

It was very challenging at first. After many false starts, I persevered, and with faith and hope, I saw the Promised Land. In high school, I worked from 3:00 PM to 11:30 PM each weekday, taking a bus and a train to get home after midnight. I'd then wake up early to get to school before 8:00 AM. Each Sunday, I drove a taxi from 6:00 AM until 6:00 PM, leaving me only Saturday off to attend church services. My success required a lot of hard work. Soon after we arrived in America, my dad returned to Haiti. My dad worked multiple jobs and made a lot of sacrifices to bring us to America. I spent long hours studying English and picking up a few words in the streets. Gradually, I learned the language and customs, and the support from teachers and immigrant communities made a huge difference in my acclimation.

Question 6

What message do you hope readers take from your triumphant immigrant story?

Accepted Answer

I want readers to understand the incredible resilience, work ethic and optimism of immigrants seeking better lives in America. My experiences aren't defined by hardship, but rather by the determination to overcome challenges. If I can achieve my dreams, others can too with enough courage and perseverance. Remember to never give up even if you fall several times.

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