Written by Linda Sue Park, Published by Clarion Books, 2020. (historical fiction, ages 8-11)
This was the honor title for the APALA children’s literature award for 2020. Not only is it a fascinating read, but if you read the author’s note Park reveals that this story was personal. She grew up loving Laura Ingalls Wilder’s books but struggled with the racism towards Natives as well as the lack of representation of Asians in that setting. As a result she wrote the book that she wished she had as a girl.
BACKGROUND
Hanna and her Pa move to the Dakota Territory in 1880. She dreams of fulfilling her late mother’s wishes of finishing school and becoming a dressmaker. However when you are the only half White half Asian girl in the territory, she must carefully overcome the racism and distrust of the community in order to accomplish her dreams.
BEST FOR
An intriguing middle grade read for those that love the slice of life frontier genre.
PAIR WITH
The Birchbark House by Louise Erdrich
WHERE TO PURCHASE
In honor of international woman’s day I want to introduce this new biography and recipient of the APALA Literature Award for the picture book category. Wu Chien Shiung was an immigrant from China who became a talented physicist. She was crucial in proving new theories but was passed up for the Nobel Peace Prize not once, not twice…but THREE times! It’s safe to say that recognition for her contributions is loooong overdue!
Growing up Chinese Filipino there were comments from both communities regarding colorism. If you were born with a fair complexion, you were considered “beautiful” and “the ideal”. You must also cover up to maintain it, along with countless cosmetics and lotions designed to lighten your complexion. If you were dark, it meant that you were “low-class” and “less desirable”. Luckily those messages never stuck personally, but I know it continues to be a major issue in many communities. That is why this title is so vital in teaching that there is more to being beautiful.
September is Hispanic Heritage Month and what better way to celebrate by reading one of Yuyi Morales’ warm colorful concept books? Seriously though, it feels like you are being wrapped in a warm happy blanket whenever you read one of her titles. Senor Calavera is so adorable, I’m so glad she wrote another story for him!
booktastings.home.blog 