This isn't a guy who is trying to make a living as an author. He's telling his, and his family's story, and that's important to him. He's asking you to look at it because you're his friend and he wants your support. You don't tell your wife that her jeans make her look fat... at least you don't stay married as long as you have without learning when to be honest and when to be kind. Friendship is like that too.

Now, you still can be helpful to your friend. You do find the story interesting, so you tell him that. Find a couple things that you find particularly interesting and ask him some questions around those things, stuff that would help fill story around the details. If something comes of it, let him know that you think he should work that stuff into his story, that it really helps you get a feel for what was going on.

You can leave it that you think he's got a strong start, and that you find the details interesting... that he's got a good story to tell... and that you're interested in reading more as he fleshes it out more.

You can also suggest that he pick up Frank McCourt's ANGELA's ASHES as a particularly good example of a coming to America story if he's interested in reading great examples other stories similar his own.

Bottom line though to you, I would guess, is that it's more important to keep this guy's friendship than that his book is awesome.

Best of luck in whatever you decide.