46 pages • 1 hour read
Weedflower
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Book Brief
260
Novel • Fiction
Arizona • 1940s
2006
Middle grade
10-14 years
750L
Super Short Summary
Weedflower by Cynthia Kadohata follows 12-year-old Japanese American Sumiko as she navigates the aftermath of Pearl Harbor, experiencing the impact and anguish of internment camps while making new friends and finding resilience through gardening. The book deals with the painful experiences of Japanese Americans during World War II, including racism and forced relocation.
Melancholic
Contemplative
Nostalgic
Emotional
Heartwarming
Reviews & Readership
5,092 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Review Roundup
Cynthia Kadohata's Weedflower compellingly portrays a Japanese-American girl's resilience during World War II, offering rich historical context and engaging prose that captivates young readers. While praised for its character depth and cultural insight, some critics note a slow pace. Nonetheless, it's well-regarded for its educational value and emotional impact. Overall, a significant, thought-provoking read.
Who Should Read Weedflower?
Fans of Weedflower by Cynthia Kadohata, an evocative historical novel set during WWII, typically enjoy touching, character-driven stories with young protagonists facing adversity. Comparable to Number the Stars by Lois Lowry and Farewell to Manzanar by Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston, it appeals to those interested in history, family, and resilience.
5,092 ratings
Loved it
Mixed feelings
Not a fan
Frank
Frank
A Native American boy who becomes friends with Sumiko through encounters in a bean field, showing the complexities of cultural differences and friendship.
Bull
Bull
Sumiko’s 19-year-old cousin, who is dedicated to farming and provides guidance to Sumiko, embodying kindness and calmness.
Ichiro
Ichiro
Sumiko's 23-year-old cousin who serves as a foil to Bull, expressing anger about wartime injustices and taking care with his appearance.
Tak-Tak
Tak-Tak
Sumiko’s younger brother, who loves animals and reveals Sumiko’s responsible nature through their sibling relationship.
Jiichan
Jiichan
Sumiko's grandfather, a first-generation Japanese immigrant with a serious demeanor who provides comic relief and insightful advice.
Auntie
Auntie
Sumiko’s strict and authoritative aunt who adapts to life in an internment camp and eventually finds independence.
Uncle
Uncle
A kind and jovial man who shares a passion for growing flowers and is unexpectedly arrested with Jiichan.
260
Novel • Fiction
Arizona • 1940s
2006
Middle grade
10-14 years
750L
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