Book details
The Year of the Book (An Anna Wang novel, 1)
Description
A novel to treasure with every middle-grade reader you know (NYTBR), this first Anna Wang story shows how a young Asian-American girl navigates her way around friendship and learn to accept that our diversity is what makes us unique. In Chinese, peng you means friend. But in any language, all Anna knows for certain is that friendship is complicated.When Anna needs company, she turns to her books. Whether traveling through A Wrinkle in Time, or peering over My Side of the Mountain, books provide what real life cannot—constant companionship and insight into her changing world.Books, however, can't tell Anna how to find a true friend. She'll have to discover that on her own. In the tradition of classics like Maud Hart Lovelace's Betsy-Tacy books and Eleanor Estes' One Hundred Dresses, this novel subtly explores what it takes to make friends and what it means to be one.
Age
7-10
Text complexity
developing
Length
160 pages
Book in series
#1
Why to read
- Cultural Insight: 'The Year of the Book' offers readers a glimpse into Chinese-American culture through the eyes of its Chinese-American protagonist, Anna Wang, providing a valuable perspective on the challenges and beauty of a bicultural identity.
- Relatable Themes: The novel addresses universal themes such as friendship, self-acceptance, and the love of reading, making it a relatable story for readers of all ages, especially those who have ever felt like outsiders or have a passion for books.
- Character Development: Readers can follow Anna's journey of personal growth as she navigates the complexities of elementary school social dynamics, family relationships, and her own self-confidence, making it an inspiring read for young readers.
- Educational Value: Andrea Cheng skillfully weaves Chinese language and cultural elements throughout the story, providing an educational experience that can spark curiosity and encourage readers to learn more about different cultures and languages.