Kaia and her family live near the beach in California, where the fun of moviemaking is all around them. Kaia loves playing with makeup and creating special effects, turning her friends into merfolk and other magical creatures. This summer, Kaia and her friends are part of a creative arts camp, where they're working on a short movie to enter in a contest. The movie is inspired by the Filipino folktales that her beloved Tatang, her great-grandfather who lives with her family, tells.
But then Kaia learns that Tatang served in the U.S. military in World War II, only to be denied his promised citizenship and the medal he should have won — and now he's planning to move back to the Philippines. Now she's trying to win the film contest and hoping to fight for his long overdue honor. This warm, tender story celebrates the joy of intergenerational relationships while also exploring the overlooked history of Filipino Americans.
"Kaia’s deep respect for and connection with Tatang provides an emotional lens through which to view his youthful experiences, including his immigration to America 60 years prior, internment following the Bataan Death March, and service during WWII. As she comes to understand the meaning behind Tatang’s choices — and the importance of his autonomy — her perception of him expands alongside her awareness of her own strengths and the opportunities available to her." — Publishers Weekly
Recommended Age | 8 - 12 |
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Author | Mae Respicio |
ISBN | 0525707573 |
Publication Date | May 5, 2020 |
Publisher | Wendy Lamb Books |
Language | English |