About This Book
Reach for this book when your child starts asking deeper questions about their family history or when they witness or experience social exclusion. This Newbery Honor book is perfect for families navigating the bridge between generations, especially those looking for a nuanced way to discuss how the past informs our present identity. Maizy Chen travels to a small Minnesota town to help her sick grandfather, only to find herself uncovering a century of family secrets hidden within their restaurant. Through Maizy's eyes, children explore themes of systemic racism, the immigrant experience, and the power of storytelling. While it tackles serious topics like historical and modern prejudice, it is balanced with warmth, humor, and a deep love for food and family. It is an excellent choice for 8 to 12 year olds who are ready to move beyond simple hero stories into complex, real world narratives about resilience and belonging. You might choose this to help a child process their own heritage or to build empathy for the diverse histories that make up the American experience.
