
By Anthony D. Fredericks, Tammy Yee (Illustrator)
Part of the Tales of Young Americans series
A tsunami's legacy reveals a hidden family story and a grandfather's secret sorrow.
In 1946, a tsunami devastates Hilo, altering lives forever. Young Kimo cherishes his grandfather, who annually visits Laupahoehoe Point in silent tribute. After his grandfather's sudden death, Kimo uncovers the poignant story behind their ritual and the deep sadness shadowing his grandfather's life. What secrets lie in the past, and how will they shape Kimo's future?
April 1, 1946 - an enormous tsunami wave strikes Hilo, Hawai’i, causing death and destruction. Even those islanders who are fortunate to have survived find their lives forever altered. Young Kimo loves his grandfather very much - they go everywhere together, sharing island stories and experiences. But there is one story his grandfather has yet to share and that is the reason behind their yearly pilgrimage to Laupahoehoe Point. Here, in silent remembrance, Grandfather places a flower lei atop a stone monument. It is only after his grandfather’s sudden death that Kimo learns the story behind their annual visit and the reason for the sadness that has haunted his grandfather throughout the years. Evocative writing brings this tragic event from Hawaiian history to present-day reality for young readers today.Award-winning children’s author Anthony D. Fredericks is a former reading specialist who now teaches at York College in York, Pennsylvania. He has authored more than 35 children’s books on a variety of science, nature, and environmental topics. The Tsunami Quilt is his first book for Sleeping Bear Press. Tammy Yee grew up in Honolulu, Hawai’i, exploring tide pools and enjoying the beauty of the natural world, which provided inspiration for her future career in children’s books. She lives in Windward, Oahu. Tammy also illustrated A is for Aloha: A Hawai’i Alphabet for Sleeping Bear Press.
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