“…a richly informative introduction to a subject little-addressed in works for children.”   — Kirkus Reviews

“Lee-Tai’s tale, with its emphasis on the internee’s dignity and feelings, offers the gentlest introduction to this tragic episode.”   — School Library Journal

“…Amy Lee-Tai shines a light on what we are capable of perpetrating on our fellow citizens, and what we are capable of rising above.”   — Mike Honda, United States Congressman

Excerpt

Every Wednesday and Sunday, Mari and Papa walked together to art school. Hand in hand, they shared peaceful, silent moments.

Mari began to ask Papa questions: “Why are we in camp? Why is almost everyone here Japanese American? Will I ever see my old friends again?”

He and Mama had resigned themselves to the internment, but Papa tried his best to answer. He turned to Japanese philosophy, noting the cycle of life: “Spring comes after winter, and flowers bloom again. Peace comes after war. Try not to worry, Mari-chan.”

It was as if, with every drawing she created, Mari found another question to ask and the courage to ask it.