"Looking for Alibrandi" is a coming-of-age novel by Melina Marchetta that explores the life of a young Australian-Italian girl named Josie Alibrandi. As she navigates her final year of high school, Josie grapples with her cultural identity, family dynamics, and the pressures of adolescence. The story unfolds against the backdrop of her relationships with friends, family, and a romantic interest, revealing the complexities of her experiences as a third-culture kid.
Throughout the novel, Josie's struggle with her Italian heritage and her desire to fit in with her peers is a prominent theme. She faces prejudices and stereotypes, leading her to question her sense of belonging. The arrival of her estranged father adds to the emotional turmoil, prompting Josie to confront her family history and the secrets that surround it.