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“A young girl discovers the pitfalls of perfection. Joo Hong admires the persimmon tree in her backyard; its fruit is “round like a full moon. Amber like the morning sun.” …She turns her attention to nurturing the tree in hopes that the fruit will be “more perfect” in time for her grandmother’s visit. …Despite her attempts to store the persimmons in the shade, the fruit continues to form dark spots. …Endearing cartoon artwork is set against bright backdrops; Joo Hong’s exaggerated facial expressions comically capture her emotions, especially her frustration and impatience. Little ones fixated on the idea of perfection will find a kindred spirit in Joo Hong.”

– Kirkus Reviews

The Most Perfect Persimmon

Written by Hannah Chung
Illustrated by Hannah Chung
Published by Astra Young Readers

In this charming author-illustrator debut, a Korean American girl harvests a perfectly ripe persimmon that she can’t wait to share with Grandma.

When Joo Hong harvests a beautiful persimmon from her mom’s garden, she can’t wait to give it to her Grandma who is visiting from far away. However, the days leading up to her arrival feel like forever—and the persimmon is looking less and less perfect as time passes by. What can Joo Hong do to make sure it’s perfectly ripe—and not mushy and wrinkly—for Grandma’s visit?

A tender story about three generations of Korean women and one perfect persimmon, this debut from author-illustrator Hannah Chung shows that even when things don’t go as planned, something even better may be in store.

Primary ISBN: 9781662620843
Publication Date: August 2024
Available As: Hardcover, Audiobook, eBook
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , ,

Setting: Korea

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Home Country

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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Activity Sheets

Meet the Author, Hannah Chung

How to Make Hongshi with Author, Hannah Chung

Source: Astra Books