Holly Thompson crafts compelling narratives across poetry, fiction, and nonfiction, drawing deeply from her extensive experience living in Japan. Her work often explores themes of identity, cultural transition, and the nuances of human connection, characterized by a lyrical prose that delicately captures complex emotions. Writing for audiences from children to adults, Thompson offers unique perspectives on life between cultures, infusing her stories with both sensitivity and insight. Her distinctive voice resonates with a profound understanding of the human heart, making her literary contributions both moving and memorable.
After his father dies, a boy describes the many waves of emotion that come with the grieving process: sad waves, mad waves, fear waves, even happy waves. As the boy and his family learn to adjust to life without Dad, the waves still come, but with help from friends, they learn to cope and heal. Full color.
Exploring themes of identity and cultural heritage, this story follows a biracial girl as she navigates her relationships with both her American and Japanese grandmothers. The narrative captures her excitement and the unique experiences that arise from spending time with each grandmother, highlighting the beauty of diverse backgrounds and the bonds of family.
George Nakashima, Woodworker
Celebrating the life of George Nakashima, this picture book biography combines poetic language with stunning illustrations to highlight the journey of the visionary Japanese American woodworker. It explores his artistic philosophy and the profound impact of his craftsmanship, showcasing his dedication to blending nature and design. Through this heartfelt narrative, readers gain insight into Nakashima's legacy and the beauty of his creations.
Winner of the APALA Asian/Pacific American Award for Young Adult Literature An ALA-YALSA Best Fiction for Young Adults Book After a classmate commits suicide, Kana Goldberg—a half-Japanese, half-Jewish American—wonders who is responsible. She and her cliquey friends said some thoughtless things to the girl. Hoping that Kana will reflect on her behavior, her parents pack her off to her mother's ancestral home in Japan for the summer. There Kana spends hours under the hot sun tending to her family's mikan orange groves. Kana's mixed heritage makes it hard to fit in at first, especially under the critical eye of her traditional grandmother, who has never accepted Kana's father. But as the summer unfolds, Kana gets to know her relatives, Japan, and village culture, and she begins to process the pain and guilt she feels about the tragedy back home. Then news about a friend sends her world spinning out of orbit all over again.
A lyrical exploration of the transition between day and night and of the animals who thrive during this special time.
Set in a picturesque Japanese seaside neighborhood, the story revolves around Jason Parker, who navigates the complexities of life and identity. As he interacts with the vibrant local community, themes of belonging, cultural differences, and personal growth emerge. The narrative delves into Jason's relationships and experiences, painting a vivid picture of his journey amidst the backdrop of coastal beauty and rich traditions. Through his eyes, readers explore the nuances of adapting to a new environment and the search for one's place in the world.
Ein heißer Julinachmittag in Kyoto: Zwei Mädchen spielen an einem Flussufer, als eines der beiden ins Wasser fällt und ertrinkt. Fünfzehn Jahre später kehrt die Amerikanerin Caitlin Ober nach Japan zurück, um sich den Geistern ihrer Vergangenheit zu stellen. Und so wird ihr Besuch Kyotos zur Zeit des O-Bon-Fests, wenn die Toten mit den Lebenden Kontakt aufnehmen, für Caitlin zu einer Reise in ihre Kindheit - und zu sich selbst ...
