Finding Junie Kim
(Book)

A tale based on true events follows the coming-of-age of a girl who is motivated by an act of racism at school to learn about her ancestral heritage and her grandparents' experiences as lost children during the Korean War.

Junie Kim just wants to fit in. So, she keeps her head down and tries not to draw attention to herself. But when racist graffiti appears at her middle school, Junie must decide between staying silent or speaking out. Then Junie's history teacher assigns an oral history project and Junie decides to interview her grandparents, learning about their experiences as kids during the Korean War, Junie comes to admire her grandma's fierce determination in protecting her family and her grandpa's unwavering compassion during wartime. And as racism becomes more pervasive at school, Junie taps into the strength of her ancestors and finds the courage to do what is right, just as her grandparents did. We Need Diverse Books cofounder Ellen Oh has cvreated a masterpiece inspired by her mother's real-life experiences during the Korean War and delivers a riveting novel about family, hope, and survival. Finding Junie Kim is a stirring exploration of identity and a reminder that within all of us lies the power to overcome hardship and emerge triumphant. --,From dust jacket.

Accelerated Reader,MG,4.7,11.0

Asian/Pacific American Award for Children's Literature, Honor, 2021-2022

Freeman Book Award for Young Adult/Middle School Literature, 2021