Stepping onto new soil as a citizen carries a weight unlike any other—the promise of possibility mixed with the ache of what you’ve left behind. In those early days when you’re navigating unfamiliar systems while holding onto your heritage, stories become more than entertainment; they become lifelines. Memoirs written by those who’ve walked this path before you offer something no guidebook can: the raw, unfiltered truth of transformation.
These narratives serve as both mirrors and maps, reflecting your own complex emotions while charting courses through challenges you haven’t yet faced. For new citizens, finding the right memoir isn’t just about discovering a good read—it’s about locating a voice that understands the particular alchemy of loss and gain, of reinvention and remembrance. This guide will help you identify the memoirs that will resonate most deeply with your unique journey, offering practical frameworks for choosing stories that educate, inspire, and ultimately remind you that you’re part of a grand, ongoing American narrative.
Top 10 Immigrant Success Story Memoirs for New Citizens
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Memoirs of an Invisible Man
Overview: This intriguing memoir delves into the experience of living unseen—whether literally or metaphorically. The narrative explores themes of isolation, identity, and the human condition through a unique lens that challenges readers’ perceptions of visibility and connection in modern society. The author crafts a deeply introspective journey that blurs the line between personal narrative and philosophical meditation.
What Makes It Stand Out: The concept immediately distinguishes itself from conventional memoirs. Rather than chronicling a famous life, it examines the universal feeling of being overlooked. The author employs invisibility as a powerful metaphor for marginalization, anonymity, or social withdrawal, creating a narrative that is both deeply personal and widely relatable. This literary approach elevates it above typical memoir fare.
Value for Money: At $29.91, this sits comfortably in the standard hardcover memoir range. Comparable works like “The Year of Magical Thinking” or “Educated” typically retail for $28-35, making this competitively priced. The philosophical depth offers more substance than many celebrity memoirs at similar price points, delivering lasting intellectual value.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include the fresh metaphorical framework, reflective prose that provokes thought, and universal resonance with anyone feeling socially invisible. Weaknesses: the abstract concept may frustrate readers expecting literal science fiction; pacing can be slow during introspective passages; limited mainstream appeal may restrict its audience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for readers who appreciate literary memoirs with philosophical undertones. Not for those seeking action-packed narratives, but perfect for contemplative readers exploring themes of identity and belonging.
2. Cultivating Justice in the Garden State: My Life in the Colorful World of New Jersey Politics
Overview: This political memoir offers a candid insider’s view of New Jersey’s notoriously complex political landscape. The author recounts decades of navigating the Garden State’s colorful corridors of power, from local machine politics to state-level policymaking. The narrative blends personal anecdotes with broader observations about civic engagement and social justice.
What Makes It Stand Out: Few political memoirs focus specifically on New Jersey’s unique brand of politics. The author’s firsthand experience with the state’s diverse communities, corruption battles, and progressive movements provides rare authenticity. The “cultivating justice” framing suggests an activist’s perspective rather than a politician’s self-aggrandizement, offering grassroots insights that most political books lack.
Value for Money: At $34.95, this falls within the standard range for hardcover political memoirs. Similar titles like “A Promised Land” or “What Happened” retail for $35-45. Given its specialized regional focus and potential lack of mass-market appeal, the price reflects quality production rather than broad commercial expectations. For NJ residents and political science students, it’s a worthwhile investment.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include authentic insider perspective, detailed historical context, and passionate advocacy for reform. The writing captures NJ’s vibrant political culture with colorful characters and compelling narratives. Weaknesses: niche appeal primarily benefits those familiar with New Jersey; potentially partisan viewpoint may alienate some readers; dense policy sections might overwhelm casual readers seeking lighter fare.
Bottom Line: Essential reading for New Jersey residents, political science students, and anyone fascinated by state-level governance. While not for general audiences, it delivers exceptional value for its target demographic.
3. The Balanced Life: Achieving Success in Work & Love
Overview: This self-help guide addresses the perennial challenge of juggling professional ambition with personal fulfillment. The book presents a structured approach to creating harmony between career goals and romantic relationships, drawing on psychological research and real-world case studies. It targets professionals struggling to maintain meaningful connections while pursuing success.
What Makes It Stand Out: Unlike many self-help books that treat work and relationships as separate domains, this integrates both spheres systematically. The author provides actionable frameworks rather than vague platitudes, including weekly planning templates, communication scripts, and boundary-setting exercises. The dual focus acknowledges that success in one area often impacts the other, offering holistic solutions.
Value for Money: At $20.11, this paperback delivers solid value. Comparable titles like “The 7 Habits of Highly Effective People” or “Boundaries” typically range from $16-25. The included practical tools and worksheets justify the price point, essentially providing a workbook and guide in one. For readers who implement the strategies, the return on investment far exceeds the cover price.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include concrete, actionable advice; research-backed methodologies; and relatable examples from diverse professionals. The integration of work and love is genuinely innovative. Weaknesses: advice may feel generic to seasoned self-help readers; requires significant personal commitment to implement; some case studies might not resonate with all demographics; could benefit from more digital-age specific scenarios.
Bottom Line: A practical, well-structured resource for ambitious professionals seeking tangible strategies to improve both career trajectory and relationship quality. Best for readers ready to actively engage with exercises.
4. Defunct: Memoirs of a Gentleman Zombie
Overview: This genre-bending novella presents a uniquely witty take on the zombie narrative, told from the perspective of an articulate undead aristocrat. The story follows a 19th-century gentleman who awakens in a modern world, struggling to maintain his manners and identity while grappling with his monstrous condition. It blends horror, humor, and social commentary.
What Makes It Stand Out: The premise alone separates it from saturated zombie fiction. A refined, eloquent zombie narrator offers fresh comedic possibilities and sharp observations about contemporary society through Victorian eyes. The “gentleman” framing creates delightful juxtaposition between gore and grace, satirizing both historical class structures and modern barbarism. At this price point, it takes creative risks that commercial publishers might avoid.
Value for Money: At $0.99, this represents exceptional value—less than a cup of coffee. Most indie ebooks in this genre range from $2.99-5.99, making this an accessible entry point for curious readers. Even if it disappoints, the financial risk is negligible. For fans of quirky horror-comedy, it’s a low-stakes discovery opportunity that could uncover a hidden gem.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include the original premise, sharp wit, and economical storytelling. The voice is distinct and entertaining. Weaknesses: at this price, expect limited polish—potential editing issues, short length, and underdeveloped plot points. The niche humor may not appeal to traditional horror fans, and world-building might feel rushed. Production quality likely matches the budget price.
Bottom Line: Perfect for adventurous readers who enjoy horror-comedy hybrids and don’t mind indie production values. At $0.99, it’s worth sampling for the novelty alone. Approach with appropriately modest expectations.
5. Lessons: the new novel from the author of Atonement
Overview: Ian McEwan’s latest literary novel explores the reverberations of a single life across decades of personal and political upheaval. The narrative follows a piano teacher whose seemingly ordinary existence becomes a lens through which to examine post-war Britain, the weight of memory, and the unexpected ways small choices cascade into profound consequences. McEwan’s signature precision and psychological depth are on full display.
What Makes It Stand Out: Coming from the author of “Atonement,” this novel carries literary heavyweight credentials. McEwan’s masterful prose and intricate plotting elevate it above contemporary fiction. The “lessons” motif weaves musical education with life’s hard-won wisdom, creating layered metaphors that reward careful reading. The premium price likely indicates a signed edition or special binding, making it a collector’s item for serious fans of literary fiction.
Value for Money: At $50.99, this is a significant investment, far exceeding typical hardcover prices. Standard literary novels retail for $25-30. However, if this is a limited edition, signed copy, or includes exclusive content, the price aligns with collector’s market values. For devoted McEwan readers, the premium may be justified. Casual readers should wait for the paperback release at a more accessible price point.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include McEwan’s impeccable craft, profound thematic depth, and rich historical texture. The prose is both elegant and accessible. Weaknesses: the high price creates a barrier; dense literary style may alienate readers seeking lighter entertainment; slow pacing requires patience; limited appeal beyond literary fiction enthusiasts. The cost-benefit ratio depends entirely on the reader’s dedication to the author.
Bottom Line: A must-have for Ian McEwan collectors and serious literary fiction readers. For general audiences, recommend waiting for a standard edition. The quality is undeniable, but the premium price demands committed fandom.
6. ASF25 The Documentary
Overview: ASF25 The Documentary appears to be a commemorative film marking the 25th anniversary of the ASF organization or event. While details are limited, this likely serves as an insider’s chronicle of a significant cultural or professional milestone, drawing from a quarter-century of archival material and firsthand accounts. The documentary format suggests a retrospective narrative that would appeal to longtime participants and newcomers interested in the organization’s legacy.
What Makes It Stand Out: The milestone anniversary framing provides a natural narrative arc, allowing filmmakers to showcase evolution and impact over time. Such documentaries typically feature rare archival footage and candid interviews with key figures unavailable in standard coverage. The “25” designation indicates this isn’t just a promotional piece but a historical document, potentially including unvarnished moments and critical reflection alongside celebration. For community members, this represents a definitive record of their shared history.
Value for Money: At $5.99, this sits comfortably in the impulse-purchase range for digital documentaries. Comparable to a rental fee but offering permanent access, it provides solid value for anyone invested in the ASF community. Unlike subscription services requiring monthly fees, this one-time purchase delivers specialized content without ongoing commitment, making it economical for targeted interest.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include its affordable price point, archival richness, and insider perspective that builds community identity. It likely offers authentic voices rather than polished corporate speak. Weaknesses may include limited appeal beyond the ASF community, potentially niche production values, and a narrative that assumes prior knowledge, making it less accessible to general audiences unfamiliar with the organization’s significance.
Bottom Line: For ASF community members or those curious about its 25-year journey, this documentary is a worthwhile purchase at $5.99. While it may not attract casual viewers, it successfully documents a milestone with authenticity and serves its intended audience well. Approach with appropriate expectations for a specialized retrospective.
7. Atlas of a Changing Earth
Overview: Atlas of a Changing Earth presents itself as a visually-driven documentary examining planetary transformation through the lens of cartography and geographic data. The title suggests a focus on climate change, urbanization, and environmental shifts, using maps as both narrative device and evidence. This appears to be an educational production aimed at raising awareness about humanity’s impact on global landscapes through compelling visual storytelling.
What Makes It Stand Out: The “atlas” concept elevates this beyond typical climate documentaries by emphasizing spatial relationships and geographic context. Rather than relying solely on talking heads, it likely employs satellite imagery, time-lapse cartography, and data visualization to show change dynamically. This approach transforms abstract statistics into tangible visual patterns, making complex environmental data immediately comprehensible. The global scope provides comprehensive perspective rather than isolated case studies.
Value for Money: With price listed as N/A, this likely streams free on educational platforms or public broadcasting services, representing exceptional value. If distributed through libraries or classrooms, its educational impact multiplies without cost barriers. Even if eventually offered for purchase, the specialized visual content and authoritative information would justify a premium price point comparable to nature documentaries.
Strengths and Weaknesses: Strengths include powerful visual storytelling, scientific credibility, and the ability to make climate change viscerally real through geographic evidence. The atlas framework provides unique educational value. Potential weaknesses involve possible information density that could overwhelm casual viewers, a potentially somber tone given the subject matter, and limited entertainment value for those seeking lighter content. Accessibility may also vary depending on distribution channels.
Bottom Line: Atlas of a Changing Earth is essential viewing for environmentally conscious audiences, educators, and anyone seeking to understand climate change through geographic evidence. Its innovative visual approach makes complex data accessible, and its likely free distribution removes financial barriers. Highly recommended for its educational merit and unique perspective.
The Transformative Power of Immigrant Narratives
Immigrant memoirs operate on multiple levels simultaneously. They document historical experiences while providing psychological validation. They preserve cultural memory while offering tactical advice. The most powerful examples don’t just tell you what happened—they show you how someone survived the internal earthquake of cultural displacement. When you’re feeling isolated in your new citizenship, these stories create an invisible community of understanding.
What makes these narratives particularly valuable is their ability to capture the granular details that official immigration channels never address. How do you explain to colleagues why you flinch at certain questions? How do you maintain dignity when your professional credentials suddenly mean nothing? Memoirs give language to these specific wounds, which is the first step toward healing them.
Why Memoirs Matter for New Citizens
Unlike generic self-help books or bureaucratic orientation materials, memoirs offer authentic emotional intelligence. They validate the paradoxical feelings that accompany naturalization—the pride of a new passport alongside the grief of diminished mother-tongue fluency. These stories acknowledge that assimilation isn’t a straight line but a messy, looping journey.
For new citizens, memoirs also function as cultural decryption tools. They reveal the unspoken rules, the subtle codes of conduct, the historical context behind American quirks that might otherwise baffle you. A well-chosen memoir can explain why Americans value small talk with strangers, or why directness is often prized over diplomacy in professional settings.
Key Themes to Explore in Immigrant Memoirs
Overcoming Adversity and Resilience
The most compelling immigrant memoirs don’t shy away from failure. They detail the humiliations of starting over—the jobs beneath one’s qualifications, the social missteps, the financial precarity. Look for narratives that show resilience as a practice, not a personality trait. These stories demonstrate that bouncing back is a skill you build through repetition, not something you’re born with.
Identity Formation and Cultural Duality
Pay attention to how memoirs handle the concept of “home.” The best ones explore cultural duality without forcing a false choice between old and new identities. They show how citizenship can be additive rather than subtractive, creating a hybrid self that draws strength from multiple belonging. This theme is particularly crucial for new citizens still negotiating how much of their original identity to preserve.
Professional Reinvention and Career Journeys
Many immigrants face the devastating reality of credential devaluation. Quality memoirs tackle this head-on, showing the emotional toll of deskilling while offering creative strategies for professional rebirth. They might document the path from surgeon to medical technician to doctor again, or from professor to dishwasher to entrepreneur. These narratives provide practical blueprints for rebuilding careers without minimizing the dignity lost along the way.
Family Dynamics Across Borders
The immigrant experience fractures families across time zones and economies. Look for memoirs that examine how relationships shift when some members immigrate while others stay behind. These stories often reveal the guilt of the fortunate, the resentment of those left, and the complex negotiations around remittances, caregiving from afar, and the decision of whom to bring over next.
Authenticity Markers: What Makes a Memoir Trustworthy
Verifiable Details and Historical Context
A credible immigrant memoir anchors personal story in verifiable history. The author should reference specific immigration policies, historical events, and geographic details that check out against official records. This grounding in reality separates genuine testimony from fabricated trauma porn. When evaluating a memoir, cross-reference the timeline with known immigration law changes or geopolitical events from that region.
Vulnerability vs. Performative Storytelling
Authentic memoirs show vulnerability without self-pity. The author acknowledges mistakes, pettiness, and moments of shame. Be wary of narratives that cast the author as either perpetual victim or flawless hero. Real stories contain nuance—the author might have been exploited but also made poor choices; they might have succeeded but also compromised values. This complexity signals honesty.
Cultural Representation: Finding Your Story
Regional and National Perspectives
The immigrant experience varies dramatically by country of origin. A memoir about arriving from a war-torn nation will differ fundamentally from one about emigrating for graduate school. Consider what aspects of your own story you need reflected. If you fled persecution, seek narratives that validate that trauma. If you came for economic opportunity, find stories that honor that ambition without shame.
Intersectionality in Immigrant Experiences
Your identity isn’t monolithic. A memoir that reflects your nationality but ignores your religion, gender, or sexual orientation might feel incomplete. Look for narratives that tackle intersectionality—how multiple identities compound both discrimination and resilience. A queer immigrant woman’s story will illuminate different challenges than a straight man’s, even from the same country.
Navigating Different Immigration Pathways Through Literature
Refugee Experiences and Forced Migration
Memoirs by refugees prioritize survival and safety over aspiration. They document dangerous journeys, bureaucratic limbo, and the particular PTSD of statelessness. For new citizens who arrived through refugee resettlement, these stories validate experiences that economic migrants might not understand. They also educate other immigrants about a different pathway, building cross-immigrant empathy.
Economic Migration and Opportunity Seekers
These narratives often center on credential devaluation and professional starting over. They typically involve more choice and planning than refugee stories, but don’t minimize the sacrifice. Look for memoirs that honestly assess the gap between expectation and reality—stories that admit the American dream required more compromise than advertised.
Family Reunification and Chain Migration
This pathway creates unique psychological burdens. The arriving family member often feels indebted to sponsors, while sponsors may feel resentful of the responsibility. Memoirs exploring this dynamic reveal the hidden costs of family-based immigration—the strings attached to help, the pressure to succeed quickly, the guilt of being a burden.
The Role of Language and Translation
Reading memoirs in your native language can provide deeper emotional resonance, but English-language memoirs offer linguistic and cultural immersion. Some immigrants benefit from reading the same story in both languages, using the native version for emotional depth and the English version for vocabulary building. When evaluating translated memoirs, research the translator’s background—a good translator captures not just words but cultural nuance.
Pay attention to how memoirs handle code-switching and bilingual dialogue. Do they italicize non-English words? Provide context or translations? The treatment of language in the text itself reveals the author’s relationship to their own linguistic journey.
Evaluating Writing Style and Accessibility
Dense, literary prose might feel rewarding for advanced English speakers but alienating for those still building fluency. Look for memoirs with clear, direct storytelling that doesn’t sacrifice depth for simplicity. Many immigrants find that reading memoirs written in present tense creates immediacy that transcends language barriers.
Consider the memoir’s structure. Chronological narratives are easier to follow than fragmented, experimental ones. However, some immigrants prefer non-linear stories that mirror the disjointed nature of their own experience. Sample the first chapter before committing—does the voice feel accessible? Does it draw you in despite linguistic challenges?
Memoirs as Practical Guides: Learning From Others’ Journeys
Beyond emotional validation, the best immigrant memoirs function as stealth handbooks. They embed practical advice within narrative: how to negotiate with landlords, which community colleges offer the best ESL programs, how to explain employment gaps in interviews, when to hire an immigration lawyer. As you read, keep a notebook for actionable tips you can apply to your own situation.
Look for memoirs that include appendices or resource lists. Some authors provide glossaries of immigration terms, contact information for advocacy organizations, or timelines of their own paperwork processes. These additions transform a personal story into a practical tool.
Building Empathy Through Diverse Perspectives
While finding memoirs that mirror your experience is validating, reading across difference builds crucial empathy. If you’re from Latin America, read about African or Asian immigrant experiences. This cross-pollination reveals common struggles beneath surface differences and combats the tribalism that can emerge within immigrant communities. It also prepares you for workplace and social interactions with immigrants from other regions.
Diverse reading also expands your understanding of American racism and xenophobia. You’ll learn that while the specifics vary, the mechanisms of exclusion often follow similar patterns. This knowledge helps you support other marginalized communities, building solidarity that’s essential for collective immigrant political power.
Creating Your Reading Roadmap
Start with memoirs published in the last decade—they’ll reflect current immigration policies and contemporary American culture. Then work backward to understand historical context. Balance heavier trauma narratives with lighter stories of integration to avoid compassion fatigue. Alternate between memoirs from your region and those from completely different backgrounds.
Set intentional reading goals: one memoir per month, perhaps, with time for reflection and journaling. Create categories: “Stories like mine,” “Stories different from mine,” “Professional development,” “Family dynamics.” This structured approach prevents overwhelm and ensures you’re building a well-rounded understanding.
Where to Discover Quality Immigrant Memoirs
University presses often publish academically rigorous memoirs with extensive footnotes and historical context. Independent bookstores in immigrant neighborhoods frequently curate excellent selections and can offer personalized recommendations. Library systems in diverse cities usually have robust collections with multiple copies for book clubs.
Online, look beyond major retailers to specialty publishers focused on diaspora literature. Follow immigrant writers on social media—they often champion each other’s work. Podcasts featuring author interviews can help you sample a memoir’s tone before purchasing. Many public libraries offer digital audiobook versions, which can be particularly valuable for improving English comprehension while commuting.
Building a Community Around Shared Stories
Reading memoirs in isolation limits their impact. Seek out or start a memoir book club specifically for new citizens. These groups become safe spaces to process your own experiences through the lens of the book. The shared vocabulary of the memoir gives language to feelings you might struggle to articulate otherwise.
Look for author events at local universities or cultural centers. Hearing a writer read their own story adds layers of meaning. Some immigrant memoir authors offer workshops or mentorship programs for new writers—participating can help you process your own story while building professional networks.
Using Memoirs for Language Acquisition
Treat memoirs as bilingual dictionaries of emotional vocabulary. Keep a running list of idioms, cultural references, and professional jargon you encounter. Read passages aloud to practice pronunciation and rhythm. Many immigrants find that memoir dialogue sections are particularly useful for learning conversational English as it’s actually spoken, not as textbooks teach it.
Consider reading memoirs in your native language first, then in English. This two-pass approach builds comprehension while deepening emotional connection. Alternatively, read English memoirs alongside their audiobook versions to connect written and spoken word. Some readers keep a “memoir journal” in English, responding to each chapter with their own reflections, effectively creating a personal ESL course.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I find memoirs that specifically reflect my country of origin?
Start with online databases of diaspora literature, which often organize by region. Search academic journals that focus on your country’s diaspora studies—their bibliographies are goldmines. Connect with cultural associations in your city; they frequently maintain reading lists. Library of Congress subject headings can also lead you to memoirs categorized by author’s nationality.
Are memoirs more helpful than self-help books for new citizens?
Memoirs and self-help books serve different purposes. Self-help offers prescriptive advice, while memoirs provide experiential wisdom that you can adapt to your situation. Memoirs validate emotions that self-help often pathologizes. Ideally, combine both: use memoirs for inspiration and self-help for actionable strategies. The memoir’s narrative structure makes lessons more memorable than bullet-pointed advice.
How can I verify the accuracy of events described in immigrant memoirs?
Cross-reference immigration timelines with USCIS policy changes. Check historical records for major events mentioned. Look for memoirs with publisher’s notes indicating fact-checking. Academic reviews often assess accuracy. Remember that memory is subjective—focus on emotional truth rather than exact dates. The author’s interpretation of events is as valuable as the events themselves.
Should I prioritize memoirs about successful immigrants or those still struggling?
Balance both. Success stories provide roadmaps and hope, but can create unrealistic expectations. Struggle narratives validate your difficulties but might increase anxiety. Look for memoirs that show the full arc—early hardship, ongoing challenges, and modest victories. Avoid stories that suggest success came easily or through exceptional talent alone; seek those that emphasize persistence and community support.
Can reading these memoirs actually improve my English proficiency?
Absolutely, when approached intentionally. Memoirs use authentic, conversational English and emotional vocabulary rarely found in textbooks. They provide context for idioms and cultural references. Read actively: highlight unfamiliar phrases, look up etymology, practice summarizing chapters aloud. Choose memoirs slightly above your current level to stretch your skills without causing frustration.
How do I know if a memoir is authentic and not exaggerated for sales?
Examine the author’s background—do they have ties to the community they write about? Check if the publisher specializes in the region or culture represented. Read reviews by scholars from that immigrant group. Authentic memoirs contain specific, mundane details alongside dramatic moments. Be skeptical of stories that seem designed to confirm stereotypes or that paint the author as either purely victim or hero.
Are translated memoirs as valuable as those originally written in English?
Translations can be equally valuable, sometimes more so if they preserve your native language’s emotional resonance. The key is translator quality—research whether the translator is bilingual and bicultural. Some translations include translator’s notes explaining cultural concepts. If possible, compare passages with bilingual friends. A good translation captures the author’s voice, not just their words.
How can these memoirs help me prepare for the citizenship process?
While memoirs don’t replace legal guides, they contextualize the emotional journey of naturalization. They describe the civics test experience, the oath ceremony’s emotional weight, and post-citizenship identity shifts. Many memoirs include actual interview questions and document struggles. More importantly, they prepare you for the psychological transition from resident to citizen, which official materials rarely address.
Is it better to read older classic immigrant memoirs or contemporary ones?
Read both, but start contemporary. Recent memoirs reflect current immigration laws, technology’s role (video calls home, social media communities), and modern American demographics. Classic memoirs provide historical context and show how much has changed—and how much hasn’t. A historical perspective helps you understand systemic patterns and builds appreciation for immigrants who paved the way.
Where can I find discussion groups or communities to process these memoirs with others?
Check with local libraries and community colleges, which often host immigrant-focused book clubs. Meetup.com frequently lists diaspora reading groups. Online, search Facebook groups for your nationality plus “book club” or “readers.” University extension programs sometimes offer memoir discussion courses. Starting your own group can be powerful—post flyers in ESL classrooms, places of worship, and ethnic grocery stores. The shared reading creates instant community.