  | Mira and Baku Author: Truuvert, Sara | |
| Price: $23.28 | ||
Summary:
With the help of a magical friend, a young girl searches for her missing father in this poignant story set during Japanese incarceration in World War II.
| Illustrator: | Theodore, Michelle |
Reviews:
Kirkus Reviews (-) (09/15/23)
Booklist (10/01/23)
Full Text Reviews:
Booklist - 10/01/2023 Even after Ma says Papa won't be home for Mira's birthday, Mira anxiously expects his return. She is consoled by her imaginary friend, Baku, with whom she flies above fields, forests, and mountains in search of her missing father. Although she recalls happy memories of collecting stones with Papa, Mira declares she'll forget him since he has forgotten her. However, a timely birthday letter reassures Mira of her papa's love. This story of a fictional family may surprise readers unaware that the Canadian government sent Japanese Canadians to incarceration camps and took their property during WWII. The author's note encourages readers to engage with others' stories to become less afraid and more accepting. The setting and mood are effectively evoked by the sober earth tones used to illustrate the town—including Mira's parents' former store and house—and the gorgeous greens and blues of the western Canadian countryside. The text subtly reveals Mira's emotions through her actions (e.g., kicking a woodpile, holding a stone tightly, and dumping her stone collection). A melancholy yet hopeful picture book. - Copyright 2023 Booklist.
