Eyes that Kiss in the Corners by Joanna Ho - Illustrated by Dung Ho

A young girl who is self-conscious of her almond shaped eyes, learns to embrace her own identity and see the beauty in herself. This book will resonate with many in the East Asian community; it inspires to help children see beyond the archaic ‘slanted eye’ stereotype. While there is an absence of male figures here, any girl or boy can relate to feeling different or inadequate at times. The young girl learns from example to love others and herself.

Dung Ho’s beautiful and bright illustrations emphasize the family member’s love and respect for one another while also including East Asian themes. “My eyes that kiss in the corners and glow like warm tea.” With these expressive words written in lyrical prose, Joanna Ho delivers a powerful message. It is a celebration of family, heritage, and of self-affirmation. 

Related Posts: In a Village by the Sea, The Monkey God

Amazon

HarperCollins 2021

Hardcover 40p
9.25" x 11.25"

Over in the Woodland: A Mythological Counting Journey by Nicole and Shar Abreu - Illustrated by Susanna Covelli

A rhyming adventure for the youngest of readers. Follow a pride of griffins as they fly through the woodlands watching over all the inhabitants of their magical home. In simple rhyme, mythological characters are introduced in a family setting; each featuring or performing their principal attributes. Ten families are introduced, beginning with the rebirth of the phoenix and his son. Familiar characters are present, like the elusive unicorn and fire breathing dragons. An index of creatures in the end provide a short definition and summary.

Shiny, dewy and magical are the illustrations Susanna Covelli has created for this mythical world. Playful trolls under a bridge or hardworking dwarves learning their craft displayed with earnestness and innocence. The woodland seems like a happy place to be. Recommended for ages 3+.

Amazon
Familius LLC 2020
Hardcover 32p
9.3" x 11.1"