Flowers From Mariko

"[A]ffecting tale with an eerily timely theme...concluding the story on a hopeful note."

"A beautifully told story about healing from the wounds of war."

"Young Mariko describes the difficult transition she and her family endure from Japanese internment camp back to society. The events are explained simply, but they are embedded with sadness, warmth, and information regarding the Resettlement Years for Japanese-Americans. Additional historical facts are provided in the author's note at the end of the book. The striking, urbane illustrations have the feel of two-dimensional murals but are complemented by realistic textile patterns and shadowing effects. There is a great deal readers can absorb, ponder, and discuss with peers."

This is the story of a Japanese-American girl whose family has suffered through three years of internment at a desolate "relocation center" during World War II. When her father returns to California, he finds that his truck has been sold and that their former landlord has disappeared with the proceeds. This sad event, along with the loss of most of their other possessions, means that Mariko's father cannot immediately resume his gardening business. The family settles into a bleak trailer park established for returning internees. Bit by bit they are able to rebuild their lives. The child's father finds some discarded gardening equipment that he can fix and Mariko starts a flower garden that comes to symbolize their rebirth. An author's note provides some brief background that allows children to put the story in context.