Based on a true story of Mamie Tape, a girl of Chinese heritage who was denied to attend the all-white school in her neighborhood, San Francisco CalifBased on a true story of Mamie Tape, a girl of Chinese heritage who was denied to attend the all-white school in her neighborhood, San Francisco California. This book highlights the racial segregation at free public school education and inspires us to fight for equality. It might seem a long way, yet the act of advocating for Asian American civil rights is needed. I fell in love with the stunning and detailed art. This is a part of history that I didn't know (albeit not surprising) yet absolutely relevant. Most importantly, the author's note is informative. A book not to be missed.
[ I received a complimentary copy from the publisher - Random House kids . All opinions are my own ]...more
Everyone loves career day except Zia - Zia's mom (Mama) can't take time off from work and doesn't speak English fluently. But on the career day, unexpEveryone loves career day except Zia - Zia's mom (Mama) can't take time off from work and doesn't speak English fluently. But on the career day, unexpected events make this a special day.
Loosely based on the author's experiences, one can feel the expectations followed by frustration from Zia. Yet the story adopts a beautiful turn through Mama's talent and creative way to brighten Zia's day. I love how this story is real and utterly relatable, especially for child of immigrants (like Zia and the author) - showing the parents' sacrifice, the struggles with the (second) language while celebrating all kind of jobs.
With bright art, Zia's pride warmed my soul and this picture book spoke to my heart. I wish all kids could read it! Lastly, I appreciated the author's heartfelt note.
[ I received a complimentary copy from the publisher - Random House kids . All opinions are my own ]...more
When Amy's teacher asks everyone to make their own dragon, Amy struggles with drawing a real dragon. After school, a story from Grandma sparks new insWhen Amy's teacher asks everyone to make their own dragon, Amy struggles with drawing a real dragon. After school, a story from Grandma sparks new inspiration. Together, can they make Amy’s perfect dragon?
For any dragon lover like me, this picture book is pure treat. With lovely illustrations, this engaging story is an ode to creativity, inspiring confidence and perseverance. The message is straightforward and it also tells that there is no right dragon ( I love the difference between Eastern and Western dragons at the end of the book). Furthermore, the cultural touch adds familiarity to this book. I found it charming.
[ I received a complimentary copy from the publisher - Simon kids . All opinions are my own ]...more
Abandoned by both his mother and father, TILTED SKY is the story about a sixth-grade boy (Bai Jian) in China who only asks for an ordinar[3.5/5 stars]
Abandoned by both his mother and father, TILTED SKY is the story about a sixth-grade boy (Bai Jian) in China who only asks for an ordinary life.
One follows Bai Jian's life as he struggles with poverty, yet, most importantly, his search for a home/family. The MC questions the world through a kid's eyes, overly keen that feels mature beyond his age. Emei crafts horrible characters, whose degree of selfishness defies the lack of principles in the family and parenting context.
For a middle grade novel, I found the themes and writing considerably serious (including some curse words). However, this doesn't detract the relevance from the commentary on the contemporary Chinese society, in the way poverty and 'appearance' impact people's lives.
One might read too deeply into it and feel uncomfortable/infuriated. I thought that the ending acquired a too hopeful tone, although I wonder if this is the author's intention to provide a glimpse of warmth and tenderness amidst the world's cruelty. Overall, I think Emei accomplished what she wanted.
[ I received a complimentary copy from the publisher - Levine Querido . All opinions are my own ]...more
In THE APOTHECARY DIARIES, Maomao is an apothecary girl who is abducted and sold to the imperial inner court. As she becomes a food taster, she uses hIn THE APOTHECARY DIARIES, Maomao is an apothecary girl who is abducted and sold to the imperial inner court. As she becomes a food taster, she uses her knowledge of medicine and food to solve complex mysteries.
Skilled in herbal medicine, Maomao is a bold and witty heroine who plays detective with 'Sherlock-Holmes vibes'. Her precise deductions and overwhelming competence make the plot thrilling and surprising. Amidst imperial intrigue, one is allowed a deep dive into messiness of inner court, which scheming, pettiness and flatteries emanate from daily life. Hyuuga seamlessly weaves cultural references, such as the meaning of hairpin, injecting extra layers and relatability into the story.
The splash of humor is balanced by the right dose of drama, and each new intrigue works as interconnected short chapter of pure mystery that can be read as standalone. Beyond the mystery, the story echoes themes of politics and family drama. It was utterly engrossing the interaction between the male and female (main) characters, their banter building endearing moments of romance.
With captivating prose and occasional illustrations that invite vivid imaginary, the light novel provides a more nuanced approach of the plot/characters. The author transports readers to the inner court and this period mystery is the epitome of fun and intrigue. I devoured these books and I can't wait to see a further character development (especially Maomao) in the next volumes.
This is a story about fostering pups, in which Ruth and her mom are in the park and see a pet adoption fair, however they can only foster for a while This is a story about fostering pups, in which Ruth and her mom are in the park and see a pet adoption fair, however they can only foster for a while since they are moving soon. I was inspired by Ruth's big heart - the pages are filled with emotions and kindness and the message is successfully delivered through delicate illustrations. This book will especially please dog lovers and it is full of heart. (the author's note is very informative).
[ I received a complimentary copy from the publisher Mackids books . All opinions are my own ]...more
When a wildfire threatens Simone's home in the Bay area, she and her mother need to evacuate to a shelter. Lead by her own creativity, memories of herWhen a wildfire threatens Simone's home in the Bay area, she and her mother need to evacuate to a shelter. Lead by her own creativity, memories of her mother (Má)'s childhood in Vietnam interweave with the narrative, delivering a beautiful story with evocative art. This book is utterly powerful, bringing awareness about the current (global) climate crisis and its impact in the environment and humanity. It makes me appreciate the nature and those who work hard to protect what we love. The incorporation of cultural elements in the story only reinforces the personal connection and highlights Nguyen's voice. With a hopeful tone, this inspiring picture book is a must read!
[ I received a complimentary copy from the publisher Astra kids books . All opinions are my own ]...more
In this collection of essays, curator and writer Simon Wu makes sharp observations on class, belonging, identity and art.
The episodes about his familIn this collection of essays, curator and writer Simon Wu makes sharp observations on class, belonging, identity and art.
The episodes about his family provide reflections on possessions and capitalism, and the way they are intrinsically impacted by inheritance and migration. Through the lives of diasporic artists, Wu shares experiences about queerness, pop culture/art and racial dynamics, in which the emotions are relatable at some degree. Disarmingly candid, the meticulous examination of Asianness (and being Asian in America) is, personally, the most compelling part - it is insightful how the author captures how East meets West. This intersectional approach about orientalism and the broken institutions, leading to profound dive into collectivity, moments that inspire recognition.
Wu's passion about art is contagious, and even though it might be a bit challenging for those unfamiliar with the 'art-world' to stay wholly focused on the passages, I appreciate the experience of an intimate study of art. Additionally, Wu also provides an expansive understanding of queerness, his words deeply human.
I found this blend of personal touch and cultural criticism collection unique and thought-provoking.
[ I received an ARC from the publisher - Harper books . All opinions are my own ]...more
MY HAPPY MARRIAGE is a Cinderella-inspired historical romance with a dash of paranormal set in Taisho-Era Japan. I absolutely loved following the storMY HAPPY MARRIAGE is a Cinderella-inspired historical romance with a dash of paranormal set in Taisho-Era Japan. I absolutely loved following the story that centers on Miyo and Kiyoka. Having both suffered in the past, the characters express their hopes, dreams and protectiveness, amidst charming moments and loneliness. My sole desire was to hug Miyo strongly and tell her that she is worthy. At its core, the story is about gifted family bloodlines and a beautiful love story. The short story at the end of each volume offers a parallel perspective to the main plot, adding nuance and intimacy to the already layered narrative. This is a fast-paced and utterly sweeping story that became one of my favorites! Now I feel the need to catch up with the anime and light novels, and fall deeper in love with these characters. (eagerly waiting for volume 5)
Told in a series of vignettes, this is about Esperanza growing up in Mango Street, Chicago. These are[3.5/5 stars]
"You can never have too much sky."
Told in a series of vignettes, this is about Esperanza growing up in Mango Street, Chicago. These are real-life stories of people whose emotions mirror her own, stories that transcend borders, either physical or of mind. Highly readable and written with lyrical prose, the succinct sentences serve one who wants to pick up stories from any point - the sentences ring true, exposing themes of family, friendship, heritage and race in the neighborhood. Common of short stories, some stories felt stronger than others, however the two-page chapters deliver glimpses, its dynamism making this a quick read. Overall, a poignant book.
- note: the rich introduction about the power of writing and the author's journey as a writer offers a lot to digest...more
Rio de Janeiro, Vivian is an art curator and the daughter of a wealthy family - not only is she fond of some designs pieces of art but sh[3.5/5 stars]
Rio de Janeiro, Vivian is an art curator and the daughter of a wealthy family - not only is she fond of some designs pieces of art but she also is a curator in everything in her life.
This novella is less plot and more vibes - Drummond is committed to examine Brazilian elites, the aristocratic habit in contrast with the violence and social inequality. With a straightforward prose that effortlessly approaches people's inner feelings, the sensoriality is muddled up with the main character's self-awareness. Amidst the Brazilian elements that made me feel at home, the author tackles on politics and mental illness. Beyond the messiness, unknown layers are uncovered through introspective moments, revealing a quite redemptive plot that feels satisfying.
Pretentions and not romanticized, ROLE PLAY (tr. Daniel Hahn) is a sharp novella heavy on social commentary. Meandering at times, I thought it was a meaningful and wonderfully translated read. Too real.
[ I received a complimentary copy from the publisher - Fsg Originals/ Fsg books . All opinions are my own ]...more
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