To whom it may concern,

Hi. My name is Lillian Monroe. I’m currently living in Ontario, Canada, but I was born in southern China.

I live at home with my parents, my mum and dad, and my younger sister Susanna (we call her Su). We’re you’re average family if you discount the fact that both Su and I don’t look like our parents.

I remember my first day of Grade 1 when we were being split into classes. The teachers ushered all the students into the hallway and began calling our names. When called we were to stand with our respective teacher. I’ll never forget the look on my teacher’s face when she called my name.

“Lillian Monroe,” she called.

I stepped forward out of the crowd of five- and six-year olds. It was only for a moment, but a look of surprise flashed in her eyes. It was only brief, so no one else would’ve noticed it. As she continued calling the names of my future classmates I saw my mother in the crowd. She looked so proud as she waved to me with a smile. I smiled back, knowing that no matter what others thought, my mum would never think twice about who I was.

I can’t blame my teacher or anyone else for being so shocked. After all, who would expect a Chinese-looking girl to have such a white name?

Well, the reason for that is simple. I’m Chinese, but I was adopted by a Canadian family.

And I’m writing these letters to you because I think I’m your daughter.

Sincerely,

Lillian Monroe