Early Reader Review: Eyes that Kiss in the Corners by Joanna Ho

Source: Received from publicist for review consideration. This in no way alters my opinion or review 

Eyes that Kiss in the Corners by Joanna Ho and Illustrated by Dung Ho  

Publisher: HarperCollins
Publication Date:  January 5th 2021

 

Format: Ebook

Rating: 

Goodreads Synopsis:  

This lyrical and stunning picture book tells a story about learning to love and celebrate your Asian-shaped eyes, in the of spirit of Hair Love by Matthew A. Cherry 

A young Asian girl notices that her eyes look different from her peers'. They have big, round eyes and long lashes. She realizes that her eyes are like her mother’s, her grandmother's, and her little sister's. They have eyes that kiss in the corners and glow like warm tea, crinkle into crescent moons, and are filled with stories of the past and hope for the future.

Drawing from the strength of these powerful women in her life, she recognizes her own beauty and discovers a path to self love and empowerment. 

This powerful, poetic picture book will resonate with readers of all ages and is a celebration of diversity. 

Review: 

This book was adorable, stunning, such a supportive and empowering book about diversity... and I loved it. It was beautiful in every way. This book is  about a young Asian American who loved the way she looks. She knows it is different but it also makes her special and she is celebrating it throughout the book. If it affirming and such a great book for young readers. 

The illustrations are absolutely stunning and provide such a vivid glimpse into the words this story provides. Together they are a powerhouse. If you have young readers in your household and need more diverse books, or even if you don't need more, you should purchase this book for your collection. It is lovely.

About the Author:

Joanna Ho is passionate about equity in books and education. The daughter of immigrants from Taiwan and China, she has been an English teacher, a dean, and a teacher professional development mastermind. She is currently the vice principal of a high school in the San Francisco Bay Area. And mom to two energetic kids. Homemade chocolate chip cookies, outdoor adventures, and dance parties with her kids make Joanna’s eyes crinkle into crescent moons. 

Learn more at www.joannahowrites.com and follow her on social media @JoannaHoWrites.

About the Illustrator:

Dung Ho was born and raised in Hue Imperial City, Vietnam, where she 

studied graphic design at the Hue Arts University. She finds inspiration in nature—the beauty of plants, flowers, and leaves. She also loves to draw interesting characters with unique personalities. Now she lives in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, where she continues to learn and develop her art, something she loves doing. When she’s not drawing, she loves spending time cooking (eating), watching movies, and tending her plants.