Kadohata, Cynthia. Kira-kira. New York: Atheneum for Young Readers, 2004. Print.
Annotation:
Kira-Kira is a tragic yet touching story of a young Asian American girl and her and her families' struggle in America during the 1950's. Winner of the 2005 Newbery Medal, Cynthia Kadohata weaves a tale of bravery and trust as we watch Katie idolize and finally lose her older sister Lynn.
Justification for Nomination (genre Multicultural):
Kira-Kira is a nice change of pace because it is specifically meant for young teens, so the read is easy and fun. You feel like you are gaining a little bit of extra knowledge when you read it because of how the author sprinkles in Japanese words so you can learn them along the way. The reader feels compassion for Katie and people with siblings surely feel a connection with Katie and Lynn as sisters. It is very interesting reading about Japanese people in America in the 1950's because this was probably a hard time to be Japanese-American. Katie explains how they would approach a restaurant where there was segregation, and without knowing where they should sit, they would order to-go.
Kira-Kira is written in first person from the viewpoint of Katie, who is 11 years old at the end of the book. I think the author lets you get somewhat close to Katie but because she is a little girl her thoughts are plain and straightforward. Katie is not manipulative or cruel, or have evil thoughts. She thinks about how her father loving her mother makes her feel loved, and how she can eat as many candies as she wants because her teeth are baby teeth and will fall out anyway.
Overall the book was endearing, and definitely targeted for a younger audience. I think it was a bit sad but I enjoyed reading and learning some cultural tips about Japan along the way.
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