About This Book
Reach for this book when your child is struggling with the feeling of being an 'outsider' or is navigating the complexities of a multiracial identity after a big move. It is particularly resonant for middle schoolers who are facing social exclusion or bullying and need to see a protagonist find strength through cultural connection. Twelve-year-old Kate moves from California to Hawaii, only to find that her partial Hawaiian heritage doesn't automatically grant her acceptance. As she faces 'haole' (outsider) prejudice at school, she turns to the traditional art of Hula to reclaim her name and her history. This is a nuanced exploration of belonging, the weight of names, and the resilience required to stand tall in a place that feels unwelcoming. It offers a hopeful path for children learning to balance different parts of their heritage.
What Parents Should Know
Sensitive Topics
The book addresses racial prejudice and bullying directly and realistically. The grief over her mother's death is a underlying theme, handled with a secular, realistic lens. The resolution is hopeful but grounded: Kate doesn't make everyone like her, but she finds her own community and self-worth.
