Beautiful illustrations and masterful storytelling await as you step into the world of Himawari House by Harmony Becker. This graphic novel follows the story of three young people, Nao, Hyejung, and Tina, as they move to Japan to forge their own paths, attend Japanese language school, and discover themselves. Becker’s illustrations help to tell the story of Nao seeking to connect with her Japanese roots and how the three foreign exchange students struggle with language barriers, relationships, and everyday trials and tribulations. Though some of the text is written only in English, much of the book is written in both English and Japanese, offering readers the opportunity to learn more about the Japanese language themselves. This is a wonderful feel good book that can expose students to Japanese culture while also exploring the relatable experience of growing up.
And for a couple of other options in graphic novels exploring these themes, take a look at Jody's MADreads post.
--reviewed by Rachel L.