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“Through beautiful full-page illustrations and vignettes, Henry, our protagonist, learns a valuable lesson about the effects that microaggressions and undesired nicknames can have on people… The art ranges from printed to hand-drawn and invite the reader the linger, especially with the variety of bright colors used.”

—Youth Services Book Review

“When Words Have Power by Lisa Chong, illus. by Kaitlin Yang, follow[s] an Asian American boy who learns about the power of words during his everyday encounters.”

—Publishers Weekly

When Words Have Power

Written by Lisa Chong
Illustrated by Kaitlin Yang
Published by West Margin Press

With gentleness and empathy, this beautiful story follows a young boy as he learns how a word that may seem funny to one person can be hurtful to another.

Henry overhears someone calling his Chinese American mother a strange name at the market: “banana.” But Henry doesn’t understand. A banana is just a piece of fruit. What’s the big deal? And what does the name mean?

With beautiful illustrations, When Words Have Power gently reveals the powerful effect microaggressions and name calling can have, and instead shows how a little kindness and respect can lead to bright, new friendships and stronger relationships with loved ones.

Primary ISBN: 9781513134857
Publication Date: October 2022
Available As: Hardcover, Paperback, eBook
Picture Book , Age 06 or older

Community Represented:

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

Setting: United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Unknown Arrival

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

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Book Guide for When Words Have Power

Source: https://www.lisachongbooks.com/