Book Title: Aekyung’s Dream
Author(s): Min Paek
Illustrator/Photographer/Artist: Min Paek
Publisher: Children’s Book Press
Copyright Date: 1988
Genre: Historical fiction
Brief Annotation: Aekyung has recently arrived to the United States from Korea and she is struggling to fit in at her school. Kids in her class tease her and she is self-conscious about her developing English. After a visit from her aunt in Korea, bringing with her a photograph of King Sejong of the Yi Dynasty in the 15th century, Aekyung has a dream about King Sejong who offers her words of wisdom and inspiration. Aekyung persists with learning her new language and eventually, through her painting, she is able to connect with her classmates.
Your Rating (1-5) and why: 4.5—I think this story could speak to any newly immigrated child—it captures the fear, sadness, and isolation that I would imagine a child who doesn’t speak English would feel when he or she moves to the United States. It’s a simple story with a strong and powerful message about perseverance and acceptance. I especially liked that the book is written in both English and Korean and the ending where Aekyung realizes that the birds outside her window speak and understand both languages.
Readers who will like this book: Children from other countries who have struggled to fit in with a new culture and learn a different language; students who like to learn about other cultures and languages; teachers who want to promote tolerance and acceptance in their classroom
Question to ask about this book before a read aloud: Have you ever felt isolated because you thought you were different or because you didn’t speak the language of everyone else around you? How can you, as students, create a welcome and accepting classroom for all?
Optional, but noted as extra effort:
1. Interest Level: K—grade 2
2. Grade Level Equivalent (grade): 3.4
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