Kira-Kira is a really well-written story. It is written as through the eyes of a child experiencing life and maturing over the years. The protagonist of the story, Katie, is the second child of a Japanese family who, when their family store went out of business, moved from Iowa to Georgia to search for jobs. I really enjoyed imagining the ride to Georgia with Katie in the front seat with their uncle who was helping with their move. Things in Georgia went well until Katie's older sister got sick and the family had to go through extreme difficulty.
I didn't need a tissue box the whole time while reading the book since the author takes you on a roller coaster ride of emotions, sometimes at a fast pace. I would be excited about the siblings going on a picnic, eating rice balls, root beer, and doughnuts; then, on just the next page, I would feel the anxiety as they run to the hospital when Katie's younger brother's leg got caught in an animal trap. Another time, the local sheriff chases Katie and her father, then a minute later, Katie is hungrily eating five tacos.
In the end, I take this book as a story about the love that envelops families and what it takes to be there for each other. The title Kira-Kira means to shine; this story shines a light on what Katie's family been given in life. It is a story that illuminates hope despite hardships.
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