Watercress
Andrea Wang, illustrated by Jason Chin

A Chinese American family is driving through the midwestern countryside when they suddenly stop. “Watercress!” the parents exclaim. The family gets out of the car, grabs their tools, and begins to collect the watercress. For the parents, the moment brings back memories of their life in China. Their pre-teen daughter is embarrassed. She doesn’t want to eat different foods, wear hand-me-downs, or be seen as different. When the family gathers at the dinner table, the girl doesn’t want to eat watercress. It’s not until her mother opens up and shares stories of her youth in China, including times of famine, that the daughter tries watercress. The family has moved forward, making new memories of their family history and watercress. Wang describes the story as being semi-autobiographical. Watercress is a touching and beautifully illustrated picture book. It is recommended for children ages five to ten.

The Ogress and the Orphans
Kelly Barnhill

The town of Stone-in-the Glen was once a lovely little village. When fire destroyed the town’s beloved library and school, everything changed. The townspeople became suspicious of each other and possessive of their property. The mayor of the village was very proud and promoted the growing selfishness. The effects of the fire were especially harmful to a group of Orphans and their caretakers. There was an Ogress who lived outside of town. She was very generous and secretly delivered gifts to the townspeople. Because she was different, the townspeople disliked the Ogress and blamed her for their problems. Only the Orphans were aware of the goodness in the Ogress and are determined to help the townspeople see the truth. Unbeknownst to the other characters, there is also a dragon in their midst who plays a vital role. The Ogress and the Orphans is a story filled with fantasy. It also promotes the real benefits of kindness and empathy. It is recommended for readers ages ten and up.

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