Kira-Kira
Sale price
$858
Chapter Book · Ages 12–15 · 2004 · Est. 4 hour read

Kira-Kira

Written by Cynthia Kadohata

A sister's illness challenges Katie to find hope in a world that seems to dim without her light.

4.0/5 Goodreads · 28,497 ratings
291 pages· 44,276 words· Est. 4 hour read
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Bookroo's summary

Katie Takeshima's world is illuminated by her sister Lynn's unique perspective, making everything seem glittering. But when Lynn falls gravely ill, Katie must navigate the challenges of their new life in Georgia and hold her family together. Can she find the kira-kira, the sparkle, in a future that seems uncertain? As Katie learns to see beyond the immediate struggles, she discovers the enduring power of hope and resilience. Will she succeed in reminding her family of the beauty that still exists, even in the darkest times?

From the publisher

kira-kira (kee ra kee ra): glittering; shining

Glittering. That’s how Katie Takeshima’s sister Lynn makes everything seem. The sky is kira-kira because its color is deep but see-through at the same time. The sea is kira-kira for the same reason. And so are people s eyes. When Katie and her family move from a Japanese community in Iowa to the Deep South of Georgia it’s Lynn who explains to her why people stop on the street to stare. And it’s Lynn who with her special way of viewing the world teaches Katie to look beyond tomorrow. But when Lynn becomes desperately ill and the whole family begins to fall apart it is up to Katie to find a way to remind them all that there is always something glittering – kira-kira – in the future.

Awards

Newbery Medal (2005)Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature (2006)
At a glance
Format
Paperback
Pages
291
Words
44,276
Reading age
12–15
Audience
Young Adult
Lexile
740L
Themes & topics
Books about death, grief, and bereavementBooks about prejudice and racismBooks about friendshipBooks about sistersBooks about social themes
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The fine print

Book details

Reading levels
ATOS
4.7
F&P level
~R
AR points
7
AR interest level
MG
AR quiz
74071
Publication
Published
December 26, 2006
First published
February 1, 2004
Edition
Language
English
Type
Chapter Book
Identifiers
ISBN
9780689856402

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