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The ABCs of Asian American History by Renee Macalino Rutledge Illustrated by Lauren Akazawa Mendez
Book review
In honor of Asian American and Pacific Islander Month, I had the privilege to review The ABCs of Asian American History, written by Renee Macalino Rutledge and illustrated by Lauren Akazawa Mendez.
The ABCs of Asian American History by Renee Macalino Rutledge and illustrated by Lauren Akazawa Mendez
Publisher: Ulysses Press For Young Readers
Reading age: 5 to 8
Grade level: 1 -2
Synopsis: Celebrate and learn about the many cultures that fall under the Asian American umbrella in this alphabetically organized, rhyming, and colorfully illustrated picture book for kids!
An inclusive compilation of the holidays, famous figures, traditional dress, cuisine, and other interesting facts from 19 Asian American groups (as defined by the 2020 United States Census), including Korean Americans, Chinese Americans, Filipino Americans, Pakistani Americans, Japanese Americans, Hmong Americans, and more.
Review
Aimed for ages five and up, I have to admit that this adult found this book fun. Written in a fun poetic rhyme, you will learn about traditional holidays, and prominent figures, foods, dress from 19 different Asian American groups, including Korean Americans, Chinese Americans, Filipino Americans, Pakistani Americans, Japanese Americans, Hmong Americans, and more, as defined by the 2020 United States Census.
We forget immigrants founded this country, Asian Americans being an important part. As Author Renee Macalino Rutledge says, “Asian American history is U.S. History.” Nothing is better said. I read this book to my 10-year-old twin boys, and they were totally fascinated. We love learning about other countries and cultures.
Rutledge does a phenomenal job, and this book needs to be in schools and public libraries. I believe racism is based on fear, and when we educate ourselves, that fear can start to dissolve. This book can be wonderful…