The Sun is Also a Star by Nicola Yoon

New York City is a big place.  People cross paths with those whom they will never know every second of every day.  What could really happen in one day?

Fate. Destiny.  Natasha does not believe in such nonsense. She believes that ceasing her family's deportation back to Jamaica is up to her. Daniel does believe in destiny and hopes that belief will steer him in a direction far away from what his parents want for him.

Natasha has lived in America since she was 8 years old.  Now, 17, as her family prepares to leave America later in the evening, she is still in denial, seeking help to buy her family some time.  Natasha's mother insists that it is too late, and that Natasha should just accept it.

Daniel, a American citizen, born to Korean immigrants, is stalling a meeting that could seal his fate as something he does not want to be.  His parents decided his life-course to become a doctor long ago and own a small business to ensure their boys have what they need to be successful.

As Natasha and Daniel become closer their relationship begins to soften her hardened heart while Natasha's no-nonsense attitude begins to empower Daniel to embrace and pursue his love of writing poetry. As the events unfold, the reader begins to see the fascinating details of how fate and destiny brought Natasha and Daniel together in unwanted circumstances.  The ending spins the reader an unexpected surprise and continued wonder.

While teen readers will certainly be engaged by the web of events and the romanticized relationship that develops in an undesirable situation, this book could also be used to discuss social issues such race relations and immigration.