Picture books have the outstanding power of introducing young readers to diverse voices and different cultures and, more importantly, allowing them to feel represented in their own. To celebrate the beautiful heritage and storytelling of Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities, we want to share some remarkable stories. For this week’s Three to Read Jr., we’ve gathered three phenomenal children’s books by authors from these communities. Read on to discover our picks!
EARLY READERS
Binna’s Dalgona by Sojung Kim-McCarthy
SYNOPSIS:
Binna is Korean and is starting to feel like a grown-up. After all, she has the superb skills of reading long books in English, beating her older sister at word games, and even making dalgona — a sweet Korean treat — all by herself. But when she tries to tell her classmates about her weekend and all the sugary treats she made, her English doesn’t come to her quite so easily. However, with her sister’s encouragement and the loving support of her classmates, Binna finds the right words to share about her life in Korea!
WHY:
This story brings to life a thoughtful and heartwarming celebration of bicultural identity as Binna reminisces about her life in Korea to her American classmates. Through her journey, young readers are invited to explore the challenges of learning a new language, feeling a sense of belonging, and expressing themselves between different cultures. Binna’s experience reflects the joys and struggles of many AAPI kids who are proud of their heritage but face difficulty in unfamiliar spaces. This story encourages empathy and cultural appreciation while empowering children to celebrate where they come from!
ELEMENTARY READERS
Made for More by Chloe Ito Ward, Illustrated by Gael Abary
SYNOPSIS:
Following a girl’s Japanese roots and Hawaiian upbringing, this story is a joyful exploration of immigration and nontraditional beauty. Comparing the shores of Japan and the coasts of Hawai’i, old customs are honored and new traditions begin as the narrator defies beauty standards to embrace her new life on the island of Kaua’i. The story uses radiant artwork to encourage readers to go against traditional expectations and find the perfect expression in each of us.
WHY:
Made for More beautifully celebrates themes of immigration, cultural identity, and self-acceptance, making this the perfect read for learning about AAPI experiences or seeking representation. By blending Japanese heritage with Hawaiian culture, the story honors both old and new traditions while teaching what it means to belong. The young girl’s tale encourages children to find confidence in their uniqueness and recognize that beauty lies in many different parts of the world!
MIDDLE GRADE READERS
Magnolia Wu Unfolds It All by Chanel Miller
SYNOPSIS:
Ten-year-old detective Magnolia Wu is adamant about returning all the lonely only socks left behind in her parents’ New York City laundromat. At the bottom of the tall buildings in the city, Magnolia has pinned every last sock from the laundromat onto a bulletin board in hopes that a customer will come to claim it. But no one seems to notice Magnolia at all. However, Iris, her new friend from California, arrives to help, and the two set off across the city to solve the mystery of the missing socks!
WHY:
Portraying the beauty of friendship, this story offers a fun and refreshing lens on community and finding your confidence. Set in the lively city of New York, Magnolia Wu’s mission brings her new perspectives, and she learns that she doesn’t have to go unnoticed. This book not only presents a spirited, positive AAPI protagonist but also celebrates everyday kindness and the power of teamwork to achieve goals; it is a delightful message to observe the world around us and never give up on our dreams!
That’s it for this week’s Three to Read Jr.! We hope you’ll join us in future installments to see more of our recommendations for young bookworms.
To read our other Three to Read articles, click here!
Browse these books and more reads handpicked by the Bookstr team on our Three to Read bookshelf on Bookshop!
