Linda Sue Park
Newbery-Winner Linda Sue Park Remembers All-of-a-Kind Family
One autumn morning, young Linda Sue Park came down to breakfast and told her mother she was fasting for Yom Kippur. "I then had to explain to her that Yom Kippur is a Jewish holiday," says Park, whose family is Korean-American--and Presbyterian.
"I wanted to emulate the characters from one of my favorite books, All-of-a-Kind Family by Sydney Taylor," explains Park, author of the 2002 Newbery Medal winner A Single Shard, a historical novel set in 12th century Korea. "The All-of-a-Kind Family series brought Jewish customs and holidays to life for me and I felt that the girls in the stories were my friends. Mom finally called her friend, Mrs. Kaplan, who convinced me it was okay to eat."
A book-lover from an early age, Park always sought out stories about other cultures. Some of her favorites were Roosevelt Grady by Louisa Shotwell and What Then, Raman? by Shirley Arora. The All-of-a-Kind Family books had a strong impact on her too. "After reading them, I wanted to be Jewish and even asked my mother how I could convert to Judaism."
Many people feel strongly about All-of-a-Kind Family, and the author of this beloved series has been memorialized with a medal, the "Sydney Taylor Book Award," by the Association of Jewish Libraries. The award promotes excellence in Jewish children's literature by recognizing authentic portrayals of Jewish life in novels, picture books, and even non-fiction. "Taylor's were the first Jewish books to really attract an audience outside the Jewish community, the first to go mainstream," says Heidi Estrin, Chair of the Sydney Taylor Book Award Committee. "To honor her legacy, we seek out titles with that same emotional pull, stories that connect Jewish and universal human traits to create a truly interesting read."
"When I heard Linda Sue Park speak about her writing, and about the effect All-of-a-Kind Family had on her, I was stunned," says Rachel Kamin, a member of the Sydney Taylor Book Award Committee. "It brought home to me the importance of recognizing great Jewish children's literature, not only for Jewish readers but also for others, for whom literature might help them feel comfortable with another a different ethnicity outside their own sphere."
The 2003 winner of the Sydney Taylor Book Award in the Younger Readers category, Bagels From Benny by Aubrey Davis, tells of a young boy who tries to thank God for his bounty and finds that reaching out to other people is a way of reaching out to God. The 2003 winner in the Older Readers category, Who Was the Woman Who Wore the Hat? by Nancy Patz, poetically imagines the individuality of an anonymous Holocaust victim, and puts the reader into her shoes, or more literally, her hat. "Both of these titles stress the importance of each person's life, and emphasize what a blessing life is," says Estrin. "Both are about Jewish values and Jewish experiences, but also express universal values and ideas to which any reader can relate."
"The danger of ethnic book awards is ghettoization," says Linda Sue Park. "If we put books with Jewish characters aside and label them 'Jewish books for Jewish children' that would be a real shame. Ethnic book awards should create connections, not limitations. The best literature, and I consider the All-of-a-Kind Family books to be among the best, should have the ability to speak to a large number of people without limits based on race, ethnicity, culture, or religion."
The Association of Jewish Libraries lists past and present Sydney Taylor Book Award winners online at www.jewishlibraries.org so that all readers can have access to them. "The Award engenders Jewish pride, and helps build bridges of understanding at the same time," says Estrin. "It really honors the all-American spirit of Sydney Taylor's All-of-a-Kind Family books."
To read more, visit: http://www.lindasuepark.com
To view a Q&A about the author, click here.
Reviews
Archer's Quest
Linda Sue Park
East meets West and ancient history meets A.D. 1999 New York in this latest offering from Linda Sue Park. Kevin feels his life is plain and boring until Koh Chu-mong, Skillful Archer, travels through time (from 55 B.C., to be exact) and arrives in Kevin's bedroom, piercing his hat with an arrow. The story follows Kevin's quest to return to his homeland of China, now called Korea. Chock full of adventure and even historical informative tidbits, this book will hold the attention of many and fills the gap of choices for those reluctant male readers, as many will identify with the main character. No violence, no drama, no mush. Kevin's character matures during the course of this story from an apathetic student to one intrigued by his heritage and desire to entrust himself, allowing him to come to the aid of a helpless foreigner in a strange new land. At first Archer's arrival seems a little far-fetched--how could he have gotten into Kevin's bedroom?--but Park's careful weaving of characters and twists somehow strengthen this fantasy, using everyday activities to return Koh Chu-mong to his rightful century. An equally delightful choice for historical fiction or sheer escape. Park will take you on a journey you could never have imagined. Following the story are charts of the Chinese Zodiac, an author's note, and the reasoning behind the math problem in discerning the element cycles. Pretty nifty! 2006, Clarion Books/Houghton Mifflin, $16.00. Ages 9 to 13. Reviewer: Elizabeth Young (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Book Sense Children's Picks, Summer 2006; American Booksellers Association; United States
Children's Catalog, Nineteenth Edition, 2006; H.W. Wilson; United States
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to Ninth Edition, 2007; H.W. Wilson Company; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Black-Eyed Susan Book Award, 2007-2008; Nominee; Grades 6-9; Maryland
Emphasis On Reading, 2007-2008; Nominee; Grades 4-6; Alabama
Kentucky Bluegrass Award, 2008; Nominee; Grade 6-8; Kentucky
ISBN: 978-0-618-59631-7
ISBN: 0-618-59631-3
Archer's Quest
Linda Sue Park
Read by Feodor Chin
When an armed ruler from an ancient Korean kingdom time-travels with bow and arrows to Kevin's bedroom, Kevin doesn't panic, but he sure is puzzled! Feodor Chin conveys Kevin's dawning awareness of the problems surrounding an armed visitor who has to be returned to his past without being seen or captured. While the suspense builds, there is humor in the many misunderstandings that arise between the two characters. Chin contrasts Kevin's young, casual voice with the measured, courtly tones of the Archer. Chin uses the most subtle nuances of accent and pitch to convey the various Korean-American generations. R.H.H. (c) AudioFile 2007, Portland, Maine 2007 (Orig. 2006), Listening Library, Three CDs, $27.00. Ages 8 up. Reviewer: Ruth Heespelink (Audiofile, August/September 2007)
From the KLIATT starred review of the book, May 2006: “When a menacing if puzzled Korean archer from the distant past suddenly materializes in Kevin’s room in modern-day Dorchester, New York, the Korean American sixth-grader realizes he must help the man get back to his own time. But how? Based on folktales and legends about the historical Korean king Chu-mong, this lively adventure has the duo trying to find out more about their connection and figure out how to return the archer before a brief window of opportunity passes. Math skills, magic, a curator from a local museum, and a tiger or two all play a role in the solution. Along the way, Kevin learns something about respect and the value of discipline, and the reader will enjoy learning about the archer and the amazing athletic feats he can perform. The clash of cultures makes for some humor, too, as Kevin tries to explain computers, telephones, and cars to his unexpected guest. This new offering from the Newbery Medal-winning author of A Single Shard tells of a different era in Korean history, and peerless archer Chu-mong’s exploits in the modern world will intrigue and amuse readers.” Experienced television, film and voice-over actor Chin vacillates from the innocent voice of Kevin to the more mature, ancient voice of the Time Traveler. He then moves on to voice the Grandmother and Grandfather in an appropriate tone. The story is made interesting by the specialized voices of Chin. Category: Fiction Audiobooks. KLIATT Codes: J--Recommended for junior high school students. 2007 (orig. 2006), Listening Library, 3 cds. 3.75 hrs.; Vinyl; plot, author, reader notes., $27.00. Ages 12 to 15. Reviewer: Sherri Ginsberg (KLIATT Review, July 2007 (Vol. 41, No. 4))
ISBN: 978-0-7393-3866-7
ISBN: 0-7393-3866-8
Bee-bim Bop!
Linda Sue Park
Illustrated by Ho Baek Lee.
A young Korean girl is "Hungry hungry hungry for some Bee-Bim Bop." That is the refrain to this catchy, upbeat poem about a girl and her mother preparing dinner for their family. Not just any dinner, but Bee-Bim Bop, an appealing Korean dish that translates to "'mix-mix rice.'" The rhythm of this poem is irresistible and the little protagonist adorable. The illustrations convey the sense of urgency the protagonist feels as she anticipates her favorite meal. She and her mother race through the grocery store, boil rice, flip the eggs, chop vegetables, and cook meat before they set the table with "spoons and chopsticks too." Then all come running as the little girl shouts, "Hurry, family, hurry, Gotta hop hop hop! Dinner's on the table and it's Bee-Bim Bop!" There is a moment of silence as, "Papa says the grace...," before all at the table "MIX IT! MIX LIKE CRAZY! Time for BEE-BIM BOP!" Readers will wish that dinnertime at their houses could be as much fun as the one depicted in this book. The text and illustrations will broaden horizons as they help children learn a bit about Korean food in an entertaining way. A recipe for Bee-Bim-Bop is included at the back of the book with detailed, kid-friendly instructions and pictures of ingredients. An author's note and photograph with her niece and nephew are also found at the back of the book. The book jacket mentions that the author has won cooking contests and has worked as a food journalist. Her novel, A Single Shard, received the Newbery Medal. So, hurry readers hurry, gotta shop shop shop, gotta learn to make some Bee-Bim Bop! 2005, Clarion Books/Houghton Mifflin Company, $15.00. Ages 3 to 8. Reviewer: Jeanne K. Pettenati, J.D. (Children's Literature)
Hurry, Mama, hurry, I’m hungry for some bee-bim bop.” This familiar phrase is repeated throughout the book as a young girl excitedly helps her mother prepare a delicious meal. We watch as the girl accompanies her mother on a shopping trip to the supermarket. Together the two purchase the necessary ingredients. Next, the mother and her young helper gather in the kitchen and being preparing their special dish. The eggs are fried, the rice is boiled, and vegetables, onions, and meats are sliced. The table is set and the family gathers for their feast of bee-bim bop. The author’s note explains that “bop” is the Korean word for rice and “bee-bim” means “mix-mix.” The ingredients and cooking instructions for one of the many versions of bee-bim bop is given at the back of the book. Young readers will enjoy the repetition and rhyming words used to tell the story. They will equally enjoy the colorful and detailed watercolor illustrations. This book embraces one of the many aspects of Korean culture. Linda Sue Park, a Newbery Award winning author, does a wonderful job of instilling an appreciation for diversity. 2005, Clarion Books/Houghton Mifflin, $15.00. Ages 5 to 10. Reviewer: Denise Daley (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Best Children's Books of the Year, 2005; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Books 2005: One Hundred Titles for Reading and Sharing, 2005; New York Public Library; United States
Children's Catalog, Nineteenth Edition, 2006; H.W. Wilson; United States
ISBN: 978-0-618-26511-4
ISBN: 0-618-26511-2
The Firekeeper's Son
Linda Sue Park
Illustrated by Julie Downing
Back in 19th century Korea, young Sang-hee's father explains the importance of his trip every night to the nearby mountaintop. There he must start a fire, the first in a series of fires from mountain to mountain from the sea to the king's palace. The fires signal that all is well; that no enemy threatens from the sea. One evening Sang-hee does not see the fire. When he runs to see why, he finds that his father is hurt, so he must take the pot of coals to the mountaintop and light the fire. Much as he yearns to see the soldiers who would come if no fire is lit, Sang-hee realizes it is up to him to keep the peace. With great difficulty, he manages to kindle the flame, and until his father is well he does his duty. Watercolors and pastels are used to create naturalistic double-page scenes which describe the "important village" and the mountain landscape surrounding it. There is a gentle quality to the daytime scenes; a more mellow sensitivity to those at night. Those of Sang-hee racing up the mountain with the pot of glowing coals add tension with his gestures and close-up perspectives. His anxious, fire-lit face on the jacket/cover draws us into his story. The "Author's Note" adds information on the factual background of the story. 2004, Clarion Books/Houghton Mifflin Company, $16.00. Ages 4 to 8. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Best Children's Books of the Year, 2004; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Nineteenth Edition, 2006; H.W. Wilson; United States
The Children's Literature Choice List, 2005; Children's Literature; United States
Choices, 2005; Cooperative Children’s Book Center; United States
Teachers' Choices, 2005; International Reading Association; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Asian Pacific American Award for Literature Winner 2004-2005 Illustration United States
Irma S. and James H. Black Award for Excellence in Children's Literature Honor Book 2004 United States
Parents' Choice Award Recommended 2004 Picture Books United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Armadillo Readers' Choice Award, 2004-2005; Nominee; PreK-2; Texas
Georgia Children's Book Award, 2006-2007; Nominee; Picture Storybook; Georgia
Kentucky Bluegrass Award, 2006; Nominee; Grades K-2; Kentucky
Monarch Award: Illinois' K-3 Children's Choice Award, 2008; Nominee; Grades K-3; Illinois
Volunteer State Book Award, 2006-2007; Nominee; Grades K-3; Tennessee
Young Hoosier Book Award, 2006-2007; Nominee; Picture Books; Indiana
ISBN: 0-618-13337-2
ISBN: 978-0-618-13337-6
The Firekeeper's Son
Linda Sue Park
Read by Norm Lee
"We live in an important village," Sang-hee's father tells him, and we have an important job: Each night the firekeeper must carry a brass pot filled with coals to the top of the mountain, lighting a special bonfire that signals to others along the Korean mountain chain that all is well in the land. When Sang-hee's father hurts his ankle, Sang-hee must take over the job for his father. Norm Lee narrates this Korean folk tale; Lee is a steady and even reader who's careful and emotionally circumspect--he conveys much through simple changes in tone and pace. His reading nicely captures Sang-hee's temptation (if the boy fails to light the fire, the king's soldiers will come to see what's wrong, which would be exciting), as well as the power of responsibility and tradition that ultimately prompts Sang-hee to become a trustworthy firekeeper. J.C.G. (c) AudioFile 2005, Portland, Maine 2004, Recorded Books, One cassetes, 15 min., Library Ed., $10.75, One CDs, $12.75/ $6.50(R). Ages 4 to 6. Reviewer: Jessie Grearson (Audiofile, April/May 2005)
ISBN: 1-4025-9919-6
ISBN: 1-4025-9935-8
ISBN: 978-1-4025-9919-4
ISBN: 978-1-4025-9935-4
Keeping Score
Linda Sue Park
More than anything in the world, nine year old Maggie wants the Brooklyn Dodgers to win a world series. The men at her dad’s old firehouse are big Dodger fans and Maggie had spent so much time there listening to the games on the radio that it became her team as well. The new fireman, Jim, is a NY Giants fan. He taught Maggie how to keep score during the games. When Jim leaves to fight in the Korean War, Maggie promises him she will continue with the score books. Maggie looks forward to receiving Jim’s letters, and is saddened when they stop. She becomes curious about the Korean War and keeps track of who is winning by drawing maps. Her frustration grows until her father tells her about the horrible event that has left Jim with what we now call post-traumatic stress disorder. Maggie is determined to help Jim recover, even to the point of wishing that the Giants will win the World Series. Although her grand idea does not work the way she had planned, she learns that hard work and hope can make a difference. Avid baseball fans will appreciate the play-by-play of the historic games between the Giants and the Dodgers in the 1950s. The captions under Park’s maps give a simplified account of the events of the Korean War, thus providing a fine introduction for readers who might otherwise be unfamiliar with it. Park’s usual smoothly elegant writing style, her spunky heroine, other well-drawn characters, and the multiple plot strands give the reader a fascinating glimpse into the past and a story that is as fresh as today’s news. 2008, Clarion Books, Ages 9 to 12, $16.00. Reviewer: Sharon Salluzzo
ISBN: 978-0-618-92799-9
The Kite Fighters
Linda Sue Park
Decorations by Eung Won Park.
For many of us the thrill of flying a kite is magical and inspirational. It was so for two young brothers living in Seoul, Korea in 1473. As the oldest boy, Kee-sup has the responsibility of keeping the family name and honor. He also seems to get special treatment and presents, so younger brother Young-sup feels envious from time to time. Although Kee-sup receives a kite for his New Year celebration, it is his brother who instinctively knows the techniques of flying. Kee-sup has little ability, but has magic fingers and later creates his own beautiful tiger kite. The young king sees it and wants one of his own, so a special dragon kite, flecked with gold leaf is fashioned for the ruler. On the following New Year the boy king realizes that he can not compete in the kite competition as no one will really try to beat him, so he asks Young-sup to fly the dragon kite. Family tensions rise as Father feels the first born son should have the privilege, but the brothers realize they need to combine their talents. Young-sup becomes the competitor and needs to use all his skills and his brother's technical know-how. The goal is to try to cut the other kites free while remaining in a special circle. The story is engaging and offers insight into Korean culture and historical information about the kite fighting competitions. 2000, Clarion Books/Houghton Mifflin, $15.00. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Laura Hummel (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2001; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, 2001; H.W. Wilson; United States
Children's Catalog, Nineteenth Edition, 2006; H.W. Wilson; United States
The Children's Literature Choice List, 2001; Children's Literature; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, June 2000; Cahners; United States
Teachers' Choices, 2001; International Reading Association; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Arizona Young Readers' Award, 2005; Nominee; Intermediate Books; Arizona
California Young Reader Medal, 2004; Nominee; Intermediate; California
Cochecho Readers' Award, 2001-2002; Nominee; Dover, New Hampshire
Dorothy Canfield Fisher Children's Book Award, 2001-2002; Nominee; Vermont
Nutmeg Children's Book Award, 2004; Nominee; Connecticut
South Carolina Book Awards, 2003; Nominee; Children's Book; South Carolina
Texas Bluebonnet Award, 2003-2004; Nominee; Texas
Voice of Youth Award, 2006-2007; Nominee; 5th and 6th Grade; Illinois
Volunteer State Book Award, 2003; Nominee; Intermediate, Grades 4-6; Tennessee
Young Hoosier Book Award, 2003; Nominee; Intermediate Book (Grades 4-6); Indiana
ISBN: 0-395-94041-9
ISBN: 978-0-395-94041-9
Project Mulberry: A Novel
Linda Sue Park
Seventh-graders Julia and Patrick are fast friends who do almost everything together. After joining a new club they are determined to come up with an outstanding project that will enable them to win at least one blue ribbon at the state fair. Usually they have good ideas and work well together. But this time they face several hurdles and cannot seem to agree on a plan. Julia’s mother’s idea of raising silkworms is enthusiastically accepted by Patrick. Julia thinks it reflects only her Korean heritage and is not “American” enough. When Mr. Maxwell, their advisor, approves the concept, Julia reluctantly goes along even though she secretly keeps putting obstacles in the way of success. Soon Julia gets totally caught up in the project. Along the way she and Patrick learn a great deal about silkworms, friendship, patience and tolerance. A unique addition to the novel is conversation between the author and Julia. It appears as dialogue in between the chapters. This is a funny and well-written story that should appeal to middle schoolers. 2005, Clarion Books, $15.00. Ages 9 to 13. Reviewer: Sylvia Firth (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Best Children's Books of the Year, 2005; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Book Sense Kid's Picks, Fall 2005; American Booksellers Association; United States
Booklist Book Review Stars , Feb. 15, 2005; United States
Children's Books 2005: One Hundred Titles for Reading and Sharing, 2005; New York Public Library; United States
Children's Catalog, Nineteenth Edition, 2006; H.W. Wilson; United States
Choices, 2006; Cooperative Children’s Book Center; United States
Kirkus Book Review Stars, April 1, 2005; United States
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Ninth Edition, 2005; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Books for a Global Society, 20006; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, May 2005; Cahners; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Asian Pacific American Award for Literature Honorable Mention 2004-2005 Text United States
Blue Hen Book Award Winner 2007 Chapter Book Delaware
Chicago Tribune Prize for Young Adult Literature Winner 2005 United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Black-Eyed Susan Book Award, 2006-2007; Book List; Grades 6-9; Maryland
Blue Hen Book Award, 2007; Nominee; Chapter Book; Delaware
Charlie May Simon Children's Book Award, 2007-2008; Nominee; Arkansas
Garden State Children's Book Award, 2008; Nominee; Fiction; New Jersey
Golden Sower Award, 20007-2008; Nominee; Grades 4-6; Nebraska
Iowa Children's Choice Award, 2007-2008; Nominee; Iowa
Kentucky Bluegrass Award, 2007; Nominee; Grades 3-5; Kentucky
Lamplighter Award, 2007-2008; Nominee; Grades 6-8; United States
Mark Twain Award, 2007-2008; Nominee; Missouri
Massachusetts Children's Book Award, 2007-2008; Master List; Massachusetts
Nutmeg Children's Book Award, 2008; Nominee; Grades 4-6; Connecticut
Prairie Pasque Award, 2007-2008; Nominee; Grades 4-6; South Dakota
Rhode Island Children's Book Award, 2007; Nominee; Rhode Island
Sunshine State Young Reader's Award, 2007-2008; Nominee; Grades 3-5; Florida
Texas Bluebonnet Award, 2006-2007; Nominee; Grades 3-6; Texas
Virginia Readers' Choice Award, 2007-2008; Nominee; Elementary; Virginia
Voice of Youth Award, 2007-2008; Nominee; 5th and 6th Grade; Illinois
Volunteer State Book Award, 2007-2008; Nominee; Grades 4-6; Tennessee
William Allen White Children's Book Award, 2007-2008; Nominee; Grades 6-8; Kansas
Young Hoosier Book Award, 2007-2008; Nominee; Intermediate; Indiana
ISBN: 0-618-47786-1
ISBN: 978-0-618-47786-9
Project Mulberry
Linda Sue Park
Read by Mina Kim
From the KLIATT starred review of the book, March 2004: “Seventh-graders Julia and Patrick decide to join an after-school club and work together on a project to be exhibited at the state fair. Julia’s mother suggests raising silkworms, as her own grandmother did in Korea. Patrick is excited about this idea, but Julia worries that it’s ‘too Korean’; she wants to fit into her Midwestern town, not be different. Julia drags her feet, but Patrick’s enthusiasm carries the day, especially when they locate a mulberry tree nearby, a source for the fresh mulberry leaves silkworms need to eat. The tree belongs to an elderly African American man they befriend, though Julia suspects her mother harbors racist feelings toward black people. Gradually, Julia becomes more enthusiastic about the project... Patrick struggles with a phobia about worms... In the end Project Mulberry is a success. Simple on the surface, this lively, engaging tale brings up many issues: friendship, racism, sibling relationships, and more... A winning story, and an excellent choice for classroom discussions.” Kim’s light, girlish voice is perfect for Julia Song as well her friends and family and she keeps her audience interested in what will happen next. The cover says “Read by Mina Kim with the author”; this means there are interludes between some chapters when Julia has conversations with the author Park. Park “plays” herself and talks to the character Julia, as Julia disputes and questions the author’s development of plot. While it interferes with the story to a certain extent, it’s certainly an interesting twist. Category: Fiction Audiobooks. KLIATT Codes: J--Recommended for junior high school students. 2005, Listening Library, 4 cds. 4.5 hrs.; Vinyl; plot, reader, author notes., $38.00. Ages 12 to 15. revv Mary Purucker (KLIATT Review, November 2005 (Vol. 39, No. 6))
ISBN: 0-3072-4536-5
ISBN: 978-0-3072-4536-6
Seesaw Girl
Linda Sue Park
Illustrated by Jean and Mou-sien Tseng
In this historical look at Korea, readers are taken to the third century of the Choson Period (1300-1880), when upper class females were not allowed to leave the inner court of their family compound. Young Jade Blossom feels so confined by this and other confining traditions that she plays pranks on the boys, escapes to the outside world for a brief time, and even dabbles in the male art of painting. All of these things must be done in secrecy, so she longs to be granted great freedom, but her culture cannot allow it. Her final solution is to invent a seesaw that is used by jumping on instead of sitting on each end. She can then jump above the walls of her family home and see the outside world. In a novel that is historically accurate, right down to the social attitudes of rebellion, Park offers a touching portrait of a courageous girl. The book also includes a helpful historical afterward by the author with a bibliography. 1999, Yearling, $4.50 and $14.00. Ages 8 to 12. Reviewer: Alexandria LaFaye, Ph.D. (Children's Literature)
Best Books:
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2000; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Books to Read Aloud to Children of All Ages, 2003; Bank Street College of Education; United States
The Children's Literature Choice List, 2000; Children's Literature; United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
South Carolina Book Awards, 2001-2002; Nominee; Children's Book; South Carolina
Texas Bluebonnet Award, 2002; Nominee; Texas
West Virginia Children's Book Award, 2001-2002; Nominee; West Virginia
ISBN: 0-3959-1514-7
ISBN: 0-4404-1672-8
ISBN: 978-0-395-91514-1
ISBN: 978-0-4404-1672-2
A Single Shard
Linda Sue Park
This beautifully-crafted tale of an orphan boy named Tree-ear takes place in 12th century Korea in the small potter's village of Ch'ulp'o. Tree-ear (named after a mushroom that grows on a tree without a parent seed) lives under a bridge with his one-legged friend, Crane-man, (hence the name) surviving on scraps pulled from rubbish heaps and rice foraged from fields. They possess a fierce integrity that keeps them from begging and stealing and share a friendship akin to father and son. Each day Tree-ear goes to the bushes behind the studio of the brilliant potter, Min, who works outside. Tree-ear dreams of one day making a pot of his own. After breaking one of Min's wares, Tree-ear is obligated to work for Min to make amends for the accident. He works diligently for the gruff old potter, collecting wood for the local kiln and retrieving and preparing clay for his master. Min's work is so admired that the king's emissary has requested a sample to be considered for a royal commission. Tree-ear, being young and in good health, travels by foot the long distance to the royal court to present two of Min's beautiful prune vases to the emissary. Along the way he is confronted with challenges both frightening and rewarding, which ultimately change his life and the lives of those around him. This moving story captures a moment in Korean history when the mystery, magic and fortitude of true artisans were valued as they dedicated their lives to create things beautiful to behold. 2001, Clarion Books/Houghton Mifflin, $15.00. Ages 9 to 14. Reviewer: Karen Deans (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Adventuring with Books: A Booklist for Pre-K-Grade 6 13th Edition, 2002; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Best Books for Young Adults, 2002; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2002; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Booklist Book Review Stars, Apr. 1, 2001; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Books to Read Aloud to Children of All Ages, 2003; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Capitol Choices, 2001; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
Children's Catalog, Nineteenth Edition, 2006; H.W. Wilson; United States
Editors' Choice: Books for Youth, 2001; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
Kaleidoscope, A Multicultural Booklist for Grades K-8, Fourth Edition, 2003; National Council of Teachers of English; United States
Kirkus Book Review Stars, January 15, 2001; United States
Los Angeles' 100 Best Books, 2001; IRA Children's Literature and Reading SIG and the Los Angeles Unified School District; United States
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Ninth Edition, 2005; H.W. Wilson; United States
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2002; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Books for a Global Society, 2002; Special Interest Group of the International Reading Association; United States
Notable Books for Children, 2002; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Parent's Guide to Children's Media, 2001; Parent’s Guide to Children’s Media, Inc.; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, March 2001; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, May 2001; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal: Best Books, 2001; Cahners; United States
Top 10 Historical Fiction for Youth, 2002; American Library Association-Booklist; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Asian Pacific American Award for Literature Honorable Mention 2004 Text United States
John Newbery Medal Winner 2002 United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Charlie May Simon Children’s Book Award Reading List, 2003-2004; Nominee; Arkansas
Dorothy Canfield Fisher Children's Book Award, 2003; Nominee; Vermont
Kentucky Bluegrass Award, 2003; Nominee; Kentucky
Lamplighter Award , 2004; Nominee; United States
Maine Student Book Award, 2002-2003; Nominee; Maine
Massachusetts Children's Book Award, 2003-2004; Nominee; Massachusetts
Nene Award, 2005; Nominee; Hawaii
Pennsylvania Young Readers' Choice Award, 2002-2003; Nominee; Pennsylvania
Rebecca Caudill Young Readers' Book Award, 2006; Nominee; Grades 4-8; Illinois
Sequoyah Book Award, 2003-2004; Nominee; Young Adult; Oklahoma
Texas Reading Club, 2004; Texas
Young Reader's Choice Award, 2004; Nominee; Middle (Grades 7-9); Pacific Northwest
Virginia Young Readers Program, 2003-2004; Nominee; Middle (Grades 6-9); Virginia
Volunteer State Book Award, 2004; Nominee; Intermediate, Grades 4-6; Tennessee
William Allen White Children's Book Award, 2003-2004; Nominee; Grades 4-6; Kansas
Wisconsin Battle of the Books, 2007-2008; Elementary Division; Wisconsin
ISBN: 0-395-97827-0
ISBN: 978-0-395-97827-6
Tap Dancing on the Roof : Sijo (poems)
Linda Sue Park
Pictures by Istvan Banyai
Sijo poetry traces its roots back to Korea in the 15th century and beyond. Similar to Japanese haiku verse, sijo differs in that it has a slightly varied structure, is not solely focused on nature, and often has a surprise ending. In this book Newberry Award winning author Linda Sue Park takes the sijo style and applies it to everyday moments that many children can identify with. Subjects such as lunch at school, beachcombing, and watching the fall leaves scatter in the wind all come to life in this concise poetic form. In addition Park adds a touch of both humor and pathos to her words in a way that will leave readers, young and old, thinking about what they have read long after the slim book is finished and put on a cozy bookshelf. Time and again these little poems tickle the foot of memory to elicit a laugh or a sigh. In addition the illustrations of award-winning artist Istvan Banyai help establish and maintain an atmosphere of wonder that augments the words on the page. Tap Dancing on the Roof introduces readers to a form of poetry that is uncommon and which some of them may wish to experiment with. Further, Linda Sue Park has crafted a small collection of gems in the form of sijo poems that will touch and engage her readers for years to come. 2007, Clarion Books/Houghton, $ 16.00. Ages 8 to 14. Reviewer: Greg M. Romaneck (Children's Literature)
Park meets the challenge of the traditional Korean poetic form of sijo in more than two dozen carefully and cleverly fashioned verses. For those tired of haiku, these are a real treat. The author clearly explains the form: sijo are usually three lines, each fourteen to sixteen syllables and each with a special purpose. The subjects of the poems are not limited to nature, like haiku, but range from “Breakfast” and “Long Division” to weather, creatures, and sports. Rhymes are optional. Banyai’s digitally-executed illustrations add considerably to the enjoyment. The endpapers echo some early black and white cartoons. In the beginning, a young ink-covered boy falls into an inkwell, supplying ink. At the end, he satisfies his curiosity by dumping the ink out and covering himself with it. The line drawings that accompany each sijo have touches of color but their charm is in the depicted action with no settings needed. A youngster with attached wings seeks pollen in a purple blossom; another stretches his waistband to accommodate more Thanksgiving turkey. Historic background, a bibliography, and tips for aspiring sijo writers are included. 2007, Clarion Books/Houghton Mifflin, $16.00. Ages 8 to Adult. Reviewer: Ken Marantz and Sylvia Marantz (Children's Literature)
Best Books:
Booklist Book Review Stars , Dec. 1, 2007; United States
Horn Book Fanfare, 2007; United States
Kirkus Book Review Stars, September 1, 2007; United States
Notable Children's Books, 2008; ALSC American Library Association; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, November 2007; Cahners; United States
ISBN: 978-0-618-23483-7
ISBN: 0-618-23483-7
What Does Bunny See? : A Book of Colors and Flowers
Linda Sue Park
Pictures by Maggie Smith
When older siblings trot off to school, little ones at home can enjoy a special learning experience, thanks to What Does Bunny See?. Newbery-winning novelist Linda Sue Park turns her nimble pen to the simple rhymes and rhythms that engage the young. Like tots everywhere, a little rabbit likes to stop and smell the roses ... and the primroses and the violets and the morning glories. Along the way, she learns to name the colors of the flowers: yellow primroses, purple violets, blue morning glories. Maggie Smith’s watercolors bring to life a furry protagonist who wanders wide- eyed through a bright, blooming world. Bunny is sure to engage her young human cohorts. 2005, Clarion, $15.00. Ages 2 to 4. Reviewer: Mary Quattlebaum (Children's Literature).
This beautiful picture book features an adorable brown bunny that hops along the paths of a colorful cottage garden and discovers all kinds of wonderful flowers. During her journey, she sees a variety of stunning blooms including red poppies, yellow primroses, purple violets, green clovers, pink water lilies, orange tiger lilies, and blue morning glories. In addition to exploring different flowers in this pastoral setting, this adventurous rabbit also sees various garden creatures such as bees, ladybugs, snails, butterflies, birds, grasshoppers, dragonflies, and caterpillars. Tired from her day of garden exploration, she curls up for a nap and dreams about a rainbow of gorgeous blossoms. Color abounds in this enchanting book, which uses bright watercolor and pencil illustrations and lively, rhyming text to introduce young readers to common flowers found in a cottage garden. The close-up images perfectly capture the beauty and magic of this flourishing natural environment. This book will make a wonderful read-aloud selection for family or library story times. 2005, Clarion Books/Houghton Mifflin Company, $15.00. Ages 3 to 6. Reviewer: Debra Briatico (Children's Literature).
Not since Miss Spider’s Car has there been such a perfect picture book. Park has created a delightful story for the beginning reader with colors, animals, alliteration, and rhyme. The colors are so vibrant that they shout to you as you turn the page. Children will want to hear this story again and again and will “read” it themselves as they memorize the repetitive phrases from every other page. The drawings are simple and beautiful. Fountains, bridges, tree stumps, bumblebees all are a part of what Bunny sees in his garden. This is a delightful gift book to read aloud. (The tiger lilies dancing on page 27 are a delight.) 2005, Clarion Books/Houghton Mifflin, $15.00. Ages 4 to 6. Reviewer: Joyce Rice (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Best Children's Books of the Year, 2005; Bank Street College of Education; United States
ISBN: 0-618-23485-3
ISBN: 978-0-618-23485-1
When My Name was Keoko
Linda Sue Park
I have a deep interest in WWII stories and found this to be a powerful addition to the list of books around that theme. The writing, as we have come to expect from Park, was beautifully done and the use of the alternate viewpoints was well executed. I thought the two viewpoints were particularly effective given the differences between what was expected of boys vs. girls in Korea during that time period. Just one viewpoint might have made the story lopsided and, ultimately, inaccurate. I had read The Year of the Impossible Goodbyes some years back and found there was an echo of that in this book. Park, however, managed to allude to the atrocities (girls going to "work" in the factories) while keeping this a powerful read for the 10-14 year old age group. I also loved having the novel span the war years; Park did that well. This was not a story that could be told as a vignette. It was the relentlessness of the Japanese that hurt the Koreans so much. Hurt them, yes, but they survived with a sense of a national identity and pride, and that is all the more astonishing given the length of time the Japanese had to "overcome" them. The bravery exhibited by this family was evidenced throughout the novel (Tae-yul, uncle, and father) which made me think about the courage and bravery that those interminable years of occupation demanded. I think this novel works successfully on so many levels, including the sheer delight of the writing itself. 2002, Clarion, $16.00. Ages 11 up. Reviewer: Joan Kindig, Ph.D. (Children's Literature).
Park sheds light on a period of WW II history that has received too little attention, the Japanese occupation of Korean. Park gives us two powerful spokespeople--Sun-hee (renamed Keoko) and her older brother Tae-yul (renamed No-bu) who record their lives in alternating chapters from 1940-45. Their writings bear witness to how the Japanese took everything from them--food, privacy, patriotism, their pride, their culture, meaningful learning, and even their names. Amid struggle, their family and community endure and support each other. When they are made to chop down one of the Sharon trees which represent Korea, they hide and replant a small one. When the neighborhood is called out for a nightly reporting, they make sure an older neighbor is helped from her home. The differences between brother and sister are as obvious as their love for each other and their past. They vary in voice and behaviors. Sun-hee's poetic voice describes her love of creating Japan kanji (or symbol characters) with her learned father. Tae-yul has no use for indoctrinated learning, his passion is working with his hands and helping his jovial uncle run the printing press. Soon their beloved Uncle flees possible capture and their home is colder without him. Sun-hee questions "If a war lasts long enough, is it possible that people would completely forget the idea of beauty? That they'd...no longer remember how to make and enjoy beautiful things?" Tae-yul takes action; furious about Japanese prejudice he joins a military mission to be a kamikaze. Secrets are everywhere waiting to be revealed, but in the meantime the two siblings are in each other's thoughts. Sun-hee writes, "we were thinking the same thing. At those moments, his thoughts were my thoughts, my thoughts were his. When he left, he took too many of my thoughts with him." Tae-yul, the realist, tells us the horrid facts, Sun-hee softens life with her prosaic writing. Together, their voices deliver an incredibly powerful accounting. 2002, Clarion, $16.00. Ages 11 up. Reviewer: Susie Wilde (Children's Literature).
Best Books:
Best Books for Young Adults, 2003; American Library Association-YALSA; United States
The Best Children's Books of the Year, 2003; Bank Street College of Education; United States
Capitol Choices, 2002; The Capitol Choices Committee; United States
Children's Catalog, Eighteenth Edition, Supplement, 2003; H.W. Wilson; United States
Children's Catalog, Nineteenth Edition, 2006; H.W. Wilson; United States
The Children's Literature Choice List, 2002; Children's Literature; United States
Choices, 2003; Cooperative Children's Book Center; United States
Great Middle School Reads, 2004; ALSC American Library Association; United States
Kirkus Book Review Stars, February 1, 2002; United States
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Ninth Edition, 2005; H.W. Wilson; United States
Middle and Junior High School Library Catalog, Supplement to the Eighth Edition, 2003; H.W. Wilson; United States
Notable Books for a Global Society, 2003; Special Interest Group of the International Reading Association; United States
Notable Children's Books, 2003; American Library Association-ALSC; United States
Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2003; National Council for the Social Studies NCSS; United States
Publishers Weekly Best Children's Books, 2002; Cahners; United States
Publishers Weekly Book Review Stars, March 4, 2002; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal Book Review Stars, April 2002; Cahners; United States
School Library Journal: Best Books, 2002; Cahners; United States
Teachers' Choices, 2003; International Reading Association; United States
Awards, Honors, Prizes:
Blue Hen Book Award Nominee 2004 Chapter Book United States
Mitten Award Winner 2002 United States
Skipping Stones Honor Awards Winner 2004 Multicultural and International United States
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Beehive Award, 2003-2004; Nominee; Children's Fiction Books; Utah
Black-Eyed Susan Book Award, 2004-2005; Nominee; Grades 6-9; Maryland
Charlie May Simon Children’s Book Award Reading List, 2004-2005; Nominee; Grades 4-6; Arkansas
Dorothy Canfield Fisher Children's Book Award, 2003-2004; Nominee; Vermont
Garden State Teen Book Award, 2005; Nominee; Fiction Grades 6-8; New Jersey
Lamplighter Award, 2004-2005; Nominee; Grades 6-8; United States
Land of Enchantment Book Award, 2006-2007; Nominee; Young Adult; New Mexico
Maine Student Book Award, 2003-2004; Nominee; Maine
Rebecca Caudill Young Readers' Book Award, 2005; Nominee; Illinois
Sequoyah Book Award, 2004-2005; Nominee; Young Adult; Oklahoma
Voice of Youth Award, 2005-2006; Nominee; 7th and 8th Grade; Illinois
ISBN: 0-618-13335-6
ISBN: 978-0-618-13335-2
When My Name Was Keoko
Linda Sue Park
Koreans Sun-hee and her brother Tae-yul must study Japanese language and culture in school. The symbols of their beloved Korea--like its flag and the rose of Sharon tree--can never be displayed or mentioned in public. When the Emperor of Japan decrees that all Koreans must take Japanese names, Sun-hee and Tae-yul become Keoko and Nobuo. But as World War II explodes all around them, Sun-hee and Tae-yul wage their own war to stay true to their family, their country, and themselves. n.d., Recorded Books, Unabridged Cassette - Library Edition; 97379, $51.75.
State and Provincial Reading Lists:
Maine Student Book Award, 2003-2004; Nominee; Maine
ISBN: 978-1-4025-4655-6
Updated 03/27/08
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