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2008 Asian/Pacific American Award Honor for Literature

“An inspiring story of a young woman crossing a boundary, an informative glimpse into a career, and a study in perseverance.”

—School Library Journal, Starred Review

“Barasch not only warmly portrays her human cast, but also presents mouthwatering galleries of sushi and of the varieties of seafood from which it is made.”

—Kirkus Reviews, Starred Review

“From the lively double-page spread of the fish market to the small, delicious pictures of the many kinds of sushi Hiromi learns to make, this book celebrates the riches of cultural diversity.”

— Booklist

Hiromi’s Hands

Written by Lynne Barasch
Illustrated by Lynne Barasch
Published by Lee & Low Books

The true story of Hiromi Suzuki, a Japanese American girl who defied tradition to train at her family’s restaurant, and who became one of the first female sushi chefs in New York.

Growing up in New York City, Hiromi Suzuki missed spending time with her father, a sushi chef who worked long hours in the family’s Japanese restaurant. So one day when she was eight years old, Hiromi begged her father to take her to the Fulton Fish Market, where he bought fresh fish. Hiromi was fascinated by what she saw and learned; by the time she was thirteen, she was ready to take the next step. She asked her father to teach her to make sushi. Little did Hiromi realize that her request would lead her to the forefront of a minor culinary revolution, as women claimed their place in the once all-male world of sushi chefs.

Lynne Barasch was inspired to write this story by her daughter, who has been friends with Hiromi Suzuki since they both were in kindergarten. Hiromi’s Hands is the true story of a young girl’s determination to follow her dream, and a tribute to the loving family who supported her.

Primary ISBN:
Publication Date: March 2007
Available As: Paperback, eBook
Picture Book, Age 06 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States (New York City NY)

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Immigrant, 1st Generation,

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Written with Cultural Advisors

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Teacher’s Guide

Source: Lee & Low Books