Kira-Kira, Newbery Winner 2005

Let me say first off that I absolutely loved this book. And it was very sad, probably the saddest one I've read so far. (Although I didn't technically read it, I listened to it on my car trip.)
In high school I took a keen interest in Japanese-Americans during WWII and this book played into that interest. It is set in the 50s and 60s and is about the relationship of two sisters. They face prejudice and hardship in their new home in Georgia, but they also face a devastating illness.
One of the things I enjoyed most about this book was the characters. Some reviews I've read say that the characters are flat, but I disagree. The characters aren't flat, they also aren't over the top. Each has their own past, suitable development, and fun traits.As for the relationship between Katie and Lynn, I feel it is developed perfectly. I also believe that the reactions Katie has throughout the book to different things are believable.
I did however, struggle with how appropriate this book was for children. I mean it has breasts, kissing, sperm (the word, during Scrabble), violence, prejudice, death, and swearing. I kept a tally in my head, thinking 'oh my!' every time something popped up. The problem being that I was judging them as an adult judges works for children. When I stepped back and tried to view it from a child's perspective I knew that children are waaaaaaaaaaaaay more interested in the overall picture than in nuances. (I watch old movies now and get far more of the jokes.) The only items on that list that kids will remember as important are prejudice and death. And really, that's not so bad. So I eagerly welcome the addition of Kira-Kira to my classroom collection.