Eyes That Weave the World’s Wonders

PreS-Gr 3–Having soothed and liberated, separately, sons and daughters from “othering,” Ho now creates a beautiful book about family: what makes individuals and what connects us to one another. The story begins with a narrator’s family together taking pictures in their ¨matching clothes and matching shoes [with] matching laughter. Everything matching in every way. Except me.” At a very young age, she was adopted by this American family. Throughout the book, her American facets are juxtaposed with the parts of her that her family does not share but clearly supports and nurtures. The illustrations are vibrant and detailed. Young people will enjoy trying to find all of the hidden elements within the pictures. Similar to her previous books (Eyes that Kiss at the Corners, Eyes that Speak to the Stars), there is particular attention given to providing a glimpse of the young girl’s Asian culture through objects she brought with her in infancy, her memories, and her dreams. The use of alliteration is particularly charming, creating a thread that gives the story flow.