26.7.08

Kira- Kira (Cynthia Kadohata)

 Kira -kira. Glistening; Shining. That's how Lynn sees everything. Katie is best friends with her big sister Lynn. They do so much together. Then, these two Japanese-American sisters move from Iowa to Georgia in the beginning  of this wonderful chapter book. There, their father starts working at a chicken plant, and his girls don't see him very much anymore. Lynn loves school and gets good grades, but Katie doesn't and she becomes jealous of Lynn. But she feels bad about her jealousy after Lynn gets sick. But after a little bit she is fine. But then she becomes ill again. She keeps getting sick on and off. Katie has to remind people that things will get better. They just need to remember  kira-kira. This book is simply phenomenal. The author Cynthia Kadohata did a magnificent job writing this Newbery Medal winning book. The way that she writes is so realistic and beautiful. I went to The Children's Literature Conference  in Athens, GA this year with my friend, and saw Cynthia Kadohata speak. I really enjoyed it. Other books by Kadohata are: Weedflower, and Cracker!. I recommend this book for ages 10 and up.

5 comments:

holly said...

This one sounds nice for my class too. I think I'm going to focus on multicultural children's literature!

JoBeth Allen said...

This is one of my favorite recent novels. I love that it is set in Georgia, tells me about a time period and social issues that I didn't know much about, and shows such a complex and loving family relationship. I think it's so neat that you got to hear her speak at the Children's Literature Conference last year. What do you think of her new book, Cracker?

Unknown said...

You recommend this book for ages 10 and up, but you are not yet 10. Interesting, no?

Anyway, commendations on a blog well done.

G.K. Billings said...

Sounds good!

Oceangirl said...

wonderful and heartwarming this author,book,and storyline is amazing