Paper Wishes

Imagine being American and placed in an internment camp because the government perceives you to be a potential threat. No charges levied against you, but you and your entire family must leave immediately, abandoning your lives, jobs, homes, schools.

The author handles these subjects fairly well considering, and she showcases how resilient children can be when faced with the unknown.

This story takes place 1942, after the attack on Pearl Harbor, where Japanese-Americans were being moved to internment camps. This story is about a girl named Manami having to move and leave her dog behind and her adjustment to the life in the prison camp.

This story was heartbreaking, her making paper wishes and drawings to try to get her dog back. Manami is very sensitive and you're experiencing the camp through her thoughts. The life in the prison camp was horrible. Everything was taken from them, except what they could carry in suitcases. She has a strong bond with her family and that plays a big part in this book. When they have everything taken they hold each other closer and talk about home often. They remain hopeful. Be sure to read the author's notes at the end for more information about this time and the events that occurred.

This is a J-book and would be a great choice for projects or anyone who likes historical fiction. ~Ashley