Summary

Growing up as the only immigrant in her homogenous New Jersey community was difficult for Lucy. When school started, she only spoke French, and had to learn English as she went along. She was frequently bullied by peers for her differences. Lucy's parents never really learned English, and so struggled to integrate into their community. Growing up, Lucy did not have a strongly gendered childhood. She drew, played outside, and interacted with both traditionally masculine and feminine parts of pop culture.

Lucy's father did not teach her any of his trade skills growing up, because he hoped Lucy would experience the American dream of upwards mobility, and never have need for them. Alternatively, Lucy's mother never taught Lucy any domestic skills, such as cooking, because she was a terrible cook and struggled greatly with what little she could make. It was a point...