The Rock in My Throat by Kao Kalia Yang and illustrated by Jiemei Lin takes a stance of resistance with an ending that challenges the privileged status of English and the treatment of immigrants in the U.S. This autobiographical picturebook tells the story of Kalia’s childhood decision to be selectively mute in speaking English. Kalia and her family came to the U.S. as Hmong refugees, comfortable in speaking their beautiful native language in their home. When she witnesses a cashier’s demeaning treatment of her mother who struggles to communicate in English, a rock grows in her throat. Kalia stops speaking in school, causing concern and confusion among her teachers and classmates, and growing loneliness in the isolation she feels in this place where English dominates. At recess, she finds solace in the beauty of nature and a relief from the constant scrutiny and embarrassment she feels in the classroom. She is unable to explain to her teachers or parents why she has stopped speaking, and the book ends with Kalia still not speaking in school, but with the hope of a connection to a classmate who invites her to play. Continue reading →