Write to Me

Written by Cynthia Grady · Illustrated by Amiko Hirao

Children's letters from WWII internment camps reveal resilience and hope.

4.4 Goodreads · 657 ratings

32 pages· 1,031 words· Est. 8 min read-aloud· ~670L

$16.99Save 7%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

During WWII, librarian Clara Breed's young Japanese American patrons face internment. As they are sent to camps, she encourages them to write letters, creating a poignant record of their experiences. Over three years, these children share their stories and thoughts on books, offering a glimpse into their resilience and hope. This narrative, drawn from real letters, explores a dark chapter in history through the eyes of those who lived it, highlighting the power of connection and the enduring spirit of youth.

From the publisher

“Dear Miss Breed . . .”

A touching story about Japanese American children who corresponded with their beloved librarian while they were imprisoned in World War II internment camps.

When Executive Order 9066 is enacted after the attack at Pearl Harbor, children’s librarian Clara Breed’s young Japanese American patrons are to be sent to prison camp. Before they are moved, Breed asks the children to write her letters and gives them books to take with them. Through the three years of their internment, the children correspond with Miss Breed, sharing their stories, providing feedback on books, and creating a record of their experiences. Using excerpts from children’s letters held at the Japanese American National Museum, author Cynthia Grady presents a difficult subject with honesty and hope.

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