Eyes That Kiss in the Corners

Summary

A young Asian girl has eyes that kiss in the corner and glow like warm tea. She knows her eyes look different than some of her peers, but she loves her eyes. She loves them because they are just like her Mama’s and her Mama’s are just like her Amah’s. She knows that little Mei-Mei has eyes just like her as well. In those eyes she sees her Asian culture and just how beautiful and powerful it is. She demonstrates self love and self confidence that she hopes her sister will always see in her.

Theme(s):

Family, Self Confidence, Tradition

Personal Response

I really enjoyed reading this story. The illustrations were stunning and portrayed Asian culture beautifully. I loved how confident the little girl was and how she wanted those around her to feel that confidence as well. I appreciated that the story began with her noticing her differences and being proud of them as opposed to her being self conscious. It was lovely to see the importance of family in the book. I felt a personal connection to my own family and how close we all are.

Teaching Ideas

This story would make an excellent read aloud followed by an activity about self love and confidence. I would have students discuss the little girl in the story and ways that she demonstrated self love and confidence. Students could then share ideas about things that they love about themselves and potentially those around them. It is important to explain that these ideas do not have to be physical features but can also be traits such as kindness and humor or skills like soccer and drawing.

BOOK.tique