Families who loved The Story of Movie Star Anna May Wong by Paula Yoo often look for books with a similar feel. These 20 recommendations were selected for their similarity in style, theme, and reading level.
Reach for this book when your child is grappling with the feeling of being an outsider or when they notice that the world does not always treat people fairly based on their background. This biography introduces Anna May Wong, a girl who grew up in her family's laundry business in Los Angeles and dreamed of becoming a movie star. It chronicles her journey from a curious child watching film sets to becoming the first Chinese American global icon, all while facing systemic barriers and hurtful stereotypes. Parents will appreciate how the book balances the glamour of old Hollywood with the harsh realities of the Chinese Exclusion Act and the discriminatory 'yellowface' practices of the era. It is a powerful tool for teaching resilience and the importance of standing up for one's dignity. The story is perfectly paced for middle-grade readers, offering a hopeful but realistic look at how one person can pave the way for future generations by refusing to accept less than they deserve.
