The Michigan Stories for Newcomers are original fiction written for adults who need to develop their reading skills. These high-interest stories reflect real-life experiences of new speakers of English as they learn about life in the United States. The stories are written at close to a fourth-grade level and include illustrations. Senem is a Turkish woman living in the United States and taking care of her family while adapting to a new language and new customs. She is forced to face challenging situations when her son is kidnapped and when she finds out about a natural disaster back in Turkey. With the help of family and friends, Senem is able to find the strength to make it through the tough times and make new beginnings in her life.