las Crosses

Determined to earn her doctorate in America, Apple An leaves Beijing with little more than her desire and spirit, soon after the Tiananmen crackdown in 1989. Upon arrival, she faces the culture shock of living in a small town in the U.S. Apple's curiosity and sense of adventure propelled her across the Pacific Ocean. Now her resilience is being tested in front of language barriers, money shortages, and job failures. As she copes with the loneliness of being far from family and friends, Apple finds both romance and heartache. Can Apple complete her education and make a home in the U.S., or will she be forced to return to a country in turmoil? "las Crosses" follows Apple on a cultural and personal exploration you won't soon forget.Apple An tells the story with humility, gentle humor, intrepid innocence, and honesty. Her portrait of a young woman who welcomes challenging experiences and intimidating encounters sets her as a role model for women to follow their hearts, heads, and spirits.