Kira Kira

Reader reviewed by Anonymous

Kira-kira means sparkling in Japanese, a very important word to Katie ever since her older sister, Lynn, taught it to her when she was little. Lynn has always guided Katie through her problems, such as moving from Northern Iowa to Southern Georgia in the 1950's, where Japanese-Americans aren't always treated fairly. Unfortunately, Lynn soon becomes sick with what is later diagnosed as Anemia, an iron-deficiency of the blood. Although this isn't as big of a problem now, in the 50's and 60's it wasn't as easily managed. Lynn is always tired and weak, and Katie must learn to deal with her struggles mostly on her own.
What I like the most about this story is that Katie and Lynn's relationship as sisters is very important to each of them, and it was really touching. I also liked how the story told and showed how the two of them dealt with racism, because I understand what it feels like to be treated that way.
In conclusion, this book is a great book to read, even if you're an adult or a kid. It's also a good story if you have a sister or brother and have a close connection (or even if you don't). I liked the way it was written, too :P

Reader reviewed by Bella

Kira-Kira is a story about a young Japanese-American girl named Katie and her sister Lynn.Katie loves her sister,and their love for each other is obviously mutual.But the tables turn when Lynn gets a terrible disease,which temporarily hurts the sisters' relationship with each other.

This book is triumphant and tearful,and I think it is a wonderful book because of its realism.Racism,disease,and change is a part of life in the 1950's (and still is now,believe me,I know)and Katie shows that.You will laugh-and cry from this story,so bring some tissues!

With all my heart and soul,I totally and completely recommend this book!

Reader reviewed by Bookworm9

"Kira-kira," told through the eyes of unassuming middle child Katie, is about a Japanese-American family in the 1950's and 60s. When the family moves from Iowa to Georgia, they are met with new prejudices. Shunned at school and all but neglected by her parents, who have to work all the time in order to afford a house, Katie is especially close to her younger brother, Sammy, and her older sister, Lynn. Katie is convinced she is dumb, but she can always rely on Lynn to teach her about the important things in life, such as the three most beautiful and "kira-kira" (glittery in Japanese) things on earth-- the sky, the ocean, and people's eyes. But when Lynn becomes ill with a terminal disease, it's Katie who must become the responsible, take-charge sister, a role she accepts with trepidation. Although the book is pretty sad, the portrayal of family-- particularly Katie and her father-- is phenomanal.

Reader reviewed by Dylana

This book is about a young Japanese girl named Katie and her older sister Lynn. Katie looks up to Lynn, who she thinks is a genius. Lynn teaches a lot to Katie about the beauty of the world and life. They share a close bond being two of the few Japanese American girls in Georgia.
Then Lynn finds she is anemic and has a terminal illness, as well. This changes Katie's whole life and also for her mother and father, who work 24/7 to support the family and thier new baby brother, Sam.
This book is filled with childish humor and a lot of emotion. It's very realistic in the way Katie is portrayed and how she views situations. You will learn a lot from this book like cherishing your family, but to always be willing to move on or face changes if necessary.
This is a great book and is different since its about people with a background usually different than your own.