Dear Maine : The Trials and Triumphs of Maine’s 21st Century Immigrants

by Morgan Riley, Reza Jalali

Dear Maine, written by Morgan Rielly, an author and state senator, and Reza Jalali, a former refugee and executive director of the Greater Portland Immigrant Welcome Center, recounts the trails and triumphs of 20 immigrants who have arrived in Maine over the past few decades. Dear Maine includes black and white photographic portraits by Lilit Danielyan.

178 pages, Paperback

Published January 1, 2021

Reviews

[KJ Grow · Rating 5 out of 5]

A remarkable collection of immigrant and refugee stories in the photographic and documentary style of Humans of New York.

Maine may be one of the whitest states in the nation, but that is changing as we embrace newcomers like these who arrive in our state having overcome the most challenging and harrowing circumstances. How fortunate we are to have these folks in our community — so many of them open new businesses and nonprofits, run for office and serve in civic leadership positions, pursue higher education, and contribute in meaningful ways. We have so much to learn from them, and stand to benefit immeasurably if we can continue to learn to resource and welcome these new Mainers.

Multiculturalism is the way.

A real gem on the Islandport Press list.

[Cindy Russell · Rating 3 out of 5]

For the most part I enjoyed reading the stories, even mentioning some of my friends, but a lot of the stories over-simplified complicated topics that made me question an ulterior motive for the book. In addition, much of the story telling was disjointed and the callouts were really not necessary and disrupted the flow. The photography was awesome and I personally would have loved to see more of that in the book!

[Chuck H · Rating 3 out of 5]

A good way to gain a contemporary understanding of Maine's sociodemographic future: reading this collection of vignettes of recent immigrants. Also a good way to understand - and prepare for - 21st century immigration to the U.S. in general, and the promise that it holds for us.

[Julia Morrell · Rating 4 out of 5]

I found this book to be reassuring in this time of upheaval. Nicely done.

[Naomi]

My partner and I enjoyed reading about the journeys of our immigrant neighbors.