Toshiki Nakamura

WOW Dozen: The Visibility of Asian and Asian American Stories in Young Readers’ Nonfiction Books

By Yoo Kyung Sung, University of New Mexico, and Junko Sakoi, Tucson Unified School District

Asian American history and voices have long been rendered invisible in children’s and young adult literature, and nonfiction texts are no exception. This list brings together a range of nonfiction titles—including picturebooks, chapter books, informational texts and biographies—that offer renewed visibility for Asians and Asian Americans. These works foreground intersectional stories that challenge historical erasure and deepen collective memory. From the artistry of George Nakashima, Ruth Asawa and I. M. Pei to the athletic trailblazing of Wataru Misaka and the mountaineering achievements of Junko Tabei, these books highlight individuals whose creativity, resilience and courage reshaped their fields and expand how young readers understand the diverse contributions of Asian and Asian American communities. Continue reading →

WOW Dozen: Fall Down Seven Times, Get Up Eight

By Michele Ebersole and Avis Masuda, University of Hawaii at Hilo

A proverb or a noteworthy saying is often used to teach important lessons and can help children connect to human experiences in simple, yet profound, ways. This WOW Dozen is centered around the Japanese proverb, “Fall down seven times, get up eight,” another way to convey the message “never give up.” This theme of hard work, perseverance or persistence is reflected through different means — whether overcoming small challenges, dealing with human relationships, standing up for oneself to make a significant change in laws to fight for the rights of others, inventing something new that builds confidence or creating an innovation that makes a big impact in the world. This list introduces biographies of meaningful people who overcame big challenges as well as fictional stories that are fun and whimsical. Reading these books aloud may inspire children to see themselves as capable and resilient beings in the world. Continue reading →