Prairie Lotus, by Linda Sue Park

(Paperback, 272 pages, first published in 2020)

Prairie Lotus is a powerful, touching, multilayered novel about a girl determined to fit in and realize her dreams: getting an education, becoming a dressmaker in her father's shop, and making at least one friend.

Acclaimed, Newbery-Medalist author Linda Sue Park has placed a young half-Asian girl, Hanna, in a small town in America's heartland, in 1880. Hanna's adjustment to her new surroundings, which primarily means negotiating the townspeople's almost unanimous prejudice against Asians, is at the heart of the story. Narrated by Hanna, the novel has poignant moments yet sparkles with humor, introducing a captivating heroine whose wry, observant voice will resonate with readers. Includes an afterword from the author.

Cautions: According to Redeemed Reader, "At one point in the story, Hanna is attacked by a dissolute character whose intentions are implied as sexual." See full review here.

Ages: 10-15