Kira-Kira

Kira-Kira is written from the point of view of ten year old Katie growing up in the 1950’s with a sister who is suffering from terminal illness.

Katie’s parents take on grueling jobs at a chicken plant and though they face prejudice and poverty, Katie and her elder sister Lynn lead a normal and happy life. Despite all the challenges the family face trying to make a living, the family sticks together and works hard to keep afloat. As Lynn’s illness gets worst the family crumbles and fall apart but after Lynn’s death they look for ways to become a family again.

This is a heart breaking yet beautiful story which touches on topics like discrimination not only to American Japanese families but also on employment discrimination that happened at the time.

The book also touches on the challenges that one faces when dealing with a dying family member. I especially like how the author addresses the issues and makes the reader understand that it’s natural to feel at times frustration and anger despite the fact that Katie loves her sister dearly.

Overall, this is a great book with important themes and an eye opener for both young and mature readers.