Written by Shaw Kuzki, Translated by Emily Balistrieri, Published by Delacorte Press, 2021. (Historical Fiction, Ages 10-14)
This book blew me away. I picked it up because of its striking cover, then upon reading it found that it was a story of students creating an art exhibit exploring the first hand effects of the atomic bombing of Hiroshima on their community. While it addresses World War II, the primary focus is the grief. The older generation had refrained from talking openly about the loss to their children, but the trauma is simply too encompassing and interconnected to ignore. Yes the subject is heavy, but the author does a amazing job facing the ugliness and loss while offering hope and healing. It is rare to find a children’s book about this subject and the author is a second-generation A-bomb survivor. This is a translated edition.
BACKGROUND
Nozomi asks her mother why her family releases an unnamed lantern when honoring their loved ones during Bon. While she is aware that her town of Hiroshima was bombed at the end of the war, what she didn’t know just how many members of her community are still grieving their lost ones. When she brings this up with her classmates they decide to create an art show honoring all who were lost and their stories. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This middle grade novel is best for students who look for emotionally poignant stories, Word War II books, with themes of inter-generational trauma, grief, and healing.
Written by Saadia Faruqi and Laura Shovan, Published by Clarion Books, 2020. (Realistic Fiction, Ages 9-12)
I have a soft spot for books with cooking themes so this was a natural pick for me. This read is unique in the sense that it explores some complicated issues surrounding racism, being an ally, and forging a sincere and authentic friendship. I appreciated that the main characters Elizabeth and Sara were able to have frank conversations about microaggressions, being supportive, and also opening up to others. The delectable descriptions of food are an extra bonus.
BACKGROUND
Sara and Elizabeth meet in an after school South Asian cooking class taught by Sara’s mother. When the two realize that both of their mothers are studying for the US citizenship test, they decide to arrange for their moms to become study partners. Eventually Sara and Elizabeth team up once again for a cooking competition and possibly a new friendship. Sara is Pakistani American and Elizabeth is Jewish from her father’s side and British from her mother’s. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This middle grade novel is for readers who love books centered around school life, family relationships, food, and friendship.
Written and Illustrated by Remy Lai, Published by Harry Holt and Company Books for Young Readers, 2020. (Graphic Novel, Ages 9-12)
I don’t see many children’s books with Singaporean protagonists so I was delightfully surprised with this graphic novel narrative. Remy Lai has a very unique voice in the sense that she is not afraid to explore the more awkward and squeamish moments of adolescence while keeping it very entertaining.
BACKGROUND
Remy Lai lives in Australia with his Mom, older sister, and grandmother. Smothered by their attentions he decides to fly solo for the first time to Singapore to visit his father and also answer some life defining questions. No biggie. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This middle grade novel/graphic novel is ideal for readers who are looking for an adventure centered around family relationships and school life.
Written by Eden Royce, Published by Walden Pond Press, 2021. (Magical Realism, Ages 9-12)
In my personal reading history I don’t think I have ever read a middle grade novel based on Gullah culture, so I was very intrigued when this title came out. It didn’t disappoint! Royce has a talent of creating an immersive experience in her writing. This story played out like a movie in my head and I was really carried away physically and emotionally by Jezebel’s journey.
BACKGROUND
When Jezebel and her twin Jay lose their beloved grandmother, their uncle and mom decide it’s time for the twins to learn the Galluh tradition of rootwork. However, the more and more the twins learn, the more they grow aware of the world and possible darkness that surrounds them. Jezebel also realizes that she has more magic than anyone thought. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This middle grade novel is best for readers who love genre-bending adventures with historical fiction mixed with magical realism. It is also slightly creepy.
Written by Ernesto Cisneros, Published by Quill Tree Books, 2020 (ages 8-12)
I really enjoyed reading about Efrén. He reminded me of some of the first students I worked with in a school library: hardworking, extremely bright, with plenty of pluck and heart. Even though he faces heartbreak and challenges, Cisneros does a great job in respecting the gravity of Efrén’s situation while maintaining a hopeful tone.
BACKGROUND
Life is busy enough with two very young siblings but Efrén’s parents, especially his mother, always had a way to keep things in order. When she is suddenly deported, Efrén’s fathers works overtime to provide and find a way to bring her back. Meanwhile Efrén finds himself taking care of well….everybody. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This middle grade novel is best for students who like realistic fiction with relatable characters overcoming big obstacles. It also discusses friendships, community, and activism.
Written by Yoon Ha Lee, Published by Rick Riordan Presents, 2019. (Science Fiction, ages 8-12)
I’m not going to lie, it has been tough especially this last week. When you hear from friends and family of growing harassment and violence then to see it culminate in a hateful event with lives lost, it’s devastating. My family is still processing, but one of the things I have clung to is to think of the victories no matter how seemingly small they are. A few of these victories I look to is when I read a children’s book that is unapologetically authentic and unique. It’s so empowering to me and for readers everywhere to read stories that aren’t written to “fit” in a certain narrative and quietly gives permission to go ahead and be different. So here’s to all of you who, despite the message that someone’s story is less valued or purposely overlooked by others, are totally unafraid to be your authentic self and to share your story. What you really end up doing is giving everyone a wondrous gift. Thank you.
BACKGROUND
Min is a gumiho, a Korean fox spirit that can shape shift. Life seems bleak on her desolate planet Jinju, but when her older brother Jun is rumored to defect to look for the powerful Dragon Pearl, Min thinks it sounds suspicious. She takes it upon herself to prove his innocence. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This middle school novel has Korean folklore interwoven throughout the story. It would best suited for readers looking for a high action, science fiction, gritty (but not too gritty!) read.
Written by Christine Day, Published by Heartdrum, 2021. (fiction, ages 9-12)
Christine Day is an author that I have been keeping an eye on and she did not disappoint. She has a talent of writing simplistic narratives that capture the complexity of issues and the emotions of her characters. In this particular title she addresses how protagonist Maise must deal with the loss of a dream and finding a new goal to work towards.
BACKGROUND
Native Maise Cannon lives for ballet, so when she suffers a knee injury the pain is more than physical. When her family takes her on a vacation to the Olympic Peninsula in Washington, Maise realizes her need to heal with the support of her community. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This middle grade novel is great for readers that love to read about relationships, family, friendships, big life transitions, and dance.
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.
Normally I would have another book trailer released and I’m still working on one for this week. However, the Youth Media Awards presented by the ALA (American Library Association) was announced this morning and I wanted to highlight a few titles! Also a special shoutout to all my peeps that served on the APALA Literature Award Committee on a job well done!
Illustrated by Michaela Goade, Illustrated by Carole Lindstrom, Published by Roaring Brook Press
This is the first time a Native has won the Caldecott Medal so a big thank you and a very hearty congratulations to Michaela Goade for your award and for paving the way for more Native creators!
Written by Tae Keller and published by Random House Children’s Books
Lily must navigate a new town when her family moves to be closer to her sick grandmother. This magical realism title touches on family relationships, grief, and Korean folklore.
Written by Saadia Faruqi & Laura Shovan and published by Clarion Books
Sixth graders Sara, a Pakistani American, and Elizabeth, a Jewish English American, find friendship through their school’s cooking class and their shared experience of their moms taking the US citizen test. This realistic fiction is great for readers who love food!
Written by Christina Soontornvat and published by Candlewick Press
Pong, an orphan in Thailand escapes from prison hoping to change his doomed fate. However he struggles to escape his past running from Nok, the prison warden’s daughter, and the dark and powerful governor. This fantasy is an action packed adventure.
Written by Ernesto Cisneros and published by Harper, an imprint of HarperCollins Publishers.
When Efren’s mother gets deported, he finds himself taking care of his younger siblings on very little funds while still balancing school life. While he and his Papa try to bring Mama back he struggles to hold everything together. This realistic fiction touches on immigration, family, activism, and friendships.
Written by Linda Sue Park and published by Clarion Books, an imprint of Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Books for Young Readers
When Hanna moves to the Dakota territory in 1880 with her father, there is one thing she notices, she is the only half Chinese girl in the entire town and probably terrority. This historical fiction addresses racism, family dynamics, friendships, and never giving up on your dreams.
WINNER OF THE SCHNEIDER FAMILY BOOK AWARD FOR MIDDLE GRADES
Written by Ann Clare LeZotte and published by Scholastic Press, an imprint of Scholastic Inc.
Mary is deaf and has always felt safe in her largely deaf community on Martha’s Vineyard island in the 19th century. However things start changing when an outsider comes to study her community. This historical fiction talks about family relationships, Native history, Deaf history and sign language.
This is just a tasting (ha!) of the many wonderful titles honored today. Congrats to all the creators! Here is a link to the official Youth Media Awards including a full list of all winners.
Written by Supriya Kelkar, Published by Aladdin, 2020. (Realistic fiction, ages 8-11)
I am not Desi but I did relate a lot to Lekha in this book. Those moments where she cannot go to school outings because of cultural obligations, being cautious about what to bring for lunch because the food at home can smell really strong, but it tastes oh so good! Also constantly balancing multiple cultures is such a familiar struggle. Kelkar balances a lot of themes and does it well while being very entertaining. A delightful read overall!
BACKGROUND
Lekha and her family are the only Desis in their small town just outside of Detroit. When she gets on the swim team and a new girl from India moves in, Lekha tries to figure out who she really is, especially when local politics get ugly. #Ownvoices
BEST FOR
This middle grade novel is delightful while touching on serious issues such as race, xenophobia, colorism, friendships, activism, and being authentic.
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