03/24/2025

Today, I’ll be reviewing All You Can Ever Know by Nicole Chung. This memoir deeply explores themes of adoption, family, self-identity, and personal growth. 

The story begins with a young Nicole Chung, a Korean American girl who was adopted by a white family after being born prematurely. Though many people often view adoption as a burden, Nicole understands that her biological parents made the decision for their own well-being. The family she was raised by was warm and loving, constantly reassuring her that though they aren’t biologically related to her, they grew in their heart. Still, Nicole faced challenges, particularly when it came to the discrimination she encountered as an adoptee, which her parents were blind to notice. 

Struggling with her identity, especially as a Korean American, she often felt like she didn’t belong in either Asian or American society. As years progress,  Nicole gets married and becomes pregnant with her first child, she feels a desire to learn more about her past and find her birth family. This search to connect with her roots brings her a sense of comfort, particularly as she embarks on a new chapter in her own life as a mother, revealing a new generation. As she uncovers her story and reconnects with her family, she realizes that waiting for what you desire is worth the time.

This family-oriented story was incredibly moving, as I could relate to the feeling of being an adoptee, lost and uncertain about personal identity. As an Asian American, I too have experienced the struggle of not feeling “Asian enough” or “American enough.” If you are into books that cover love, family, coming of age, self realization and identity, this book is perfect for you. Happy Reading!