Combining realism, fantasy, and spirituality, A Wish in the Dark by Christina Soontornvat is perfect for these times, for upper elementary grade students. We follow Nok, the perfect, wealthy daughter and spire, (martial arts like) champion as she searches, in a “Les Miserables” type manner, for Pong, an orphan, who she believes has ruined her family’s good name by escaping from her father’s orphanage. We navigate the very special friendship between Pong and Somkit, two boys who grew up together in the orphanage but then separate. Our characters inhabit a canal filled, overpopulated city where a Governor’s magic orbs restore law and order and then totalitarianism. But what makes this book resonate with our present day, specifically with the Black Lives Matter movement, is the existence of systemic inequality the people confront each and every day in their lives. All three characters are searching for the answer to the questions; Who am I? and How shall I live? As they search for their identities they become involved in a non violent march against the Governor. One character states, “I’m marching ‘cause it’s time we stand up and say we won’t be treated this way. We deserve respect, no matter what side of the river we live on. No matter what color orbs swing over our heads!” This chapter book does an excellent job of navigating our dark times and finding the light.
1 Comment
Laura
11/5/2020 11:00:40 am
Beautiful book. Thank you for the detailed review. I love your leaves!!!
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Author For 29 years I had the best job as School Librarian in the Aaron Kushner Library for grades Pre K-3 at the Solomon Schechter Day School of Greater Boston. Although I am retired, I remain Lori the Librarian. Archives
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