Prairie Lotus by Linda Sue Park
Published by Clarion Books on March 3, 2020
ISBN: 132878150X
Pages: 272
Genres: Historical Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Goodreads

Accurate historical portrayal and honest emotional responses to prejudice makes this a total winner.  Once again Park offers readers a complex yet readable story that reveals a specific slice of history.  In this title the setting is the American West during a time known to readers via the Little House on the Prairie series.  Hanna however is half Chinese in an otherwise all white town where she is not welcome.  The dialog reveals a young girl with high goals and deep commitment to her personal future.  Readers will see that everyday there is a challenge yet Hanna is a strong character who becomes a beloved friend.

In a time of social justice demonstrations and a pandemic citizen of 2020 are aware of the hurt that blind hate creates.  This title is just in time to help intermediate students understand how bias effects children and reveals that bullies come in all sizes and ages.    Add this excellent new novel to all public libraries and to intermediate and middle school media centers.  Gift to Little House fans to expose them to better researched materials and writing style.