Ho, Joanna. Eyes That Speak to the Stars. Dung Ho, Illus. Picture Book. HarperCollins, 02/2022. [36]pp. $18.99. 978-0-06-305775-3. OUTSTANDING. GRADES K-3.
When a father picks his son up from school, the boy, upset, tells him about a picture a classmate drew showing the boy’s eyes as two lines instead of circles like the other kids. The father explains that the boy’s eyes, like his father’s, grandfather’s, and little brother’s eyes, “rise to the skies and speak to the stars.” This thoughtful story can help parents to begin discussions when this type of aggression occurs and also provides a way for Asian children to develop pride in themselves. Similar in tone to Ho’s previous book, Eyes That Kiss in the Corners (2021), this new book is for a slightly older audience but still uses Dung Ho’s expressive, full-color, digitally-created illustrations, including one spread that is clearly San Francisco with the Golden Gate Bridge and Transamerica building. There are several references to Chinese culture and folklore that will resonate with many readers. This book has California-specific content.
Penny Peck, San Jose State University, iSchool