BLOG TOUR: I Am Able To Shine by Korey Watari & Mike Wu
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ABOUT THE BOOK
An affirmative, empowering story about embracing your identity and finding your voice, inspired in part by debut author Korey Watari’s experiences growing up Asian American, and illustrated by her husband, Mike Wu, Pixar artist and creator of the Ellie series.
I am beautiful.
I belong here.
What I do matters.
I am able to shine.
Each night Keiko whispers to her crane, “I wish to change the world.” She is kind, and she has big dreams. But at times she feels invisible; she knows some people misjudge her. Keiko is also loved, so she perseveres and stands strong. Over time, her confidence grows, she shares more of herself, and she helps lift up others—and eventually lead them. She understands that no matter what, she can shine.
ABOUT THE AUTHOR & ILLUSTRATOR
Husband-and-wife team Korey Watari and Mike Wu live in the San Francisco Bay Area in California with their two lively daughters. This is their first picture book together. Korey is a sansei, or third generation Japanese American, born and raised in Los Angeles. She played basketball for a Japanese American League, graduated from the University of California Riverside, and studied at the Fashion Institute of Design and Merchandising. Korey has worked in the animation and fashion industries for companies such as Disney and the Gap. This is her first picture book. Learn more at www.koreywatari.com or on Twitter at @tinyteru.
Mike is the author and illustrator of the acclaimed, bestselling Ellie series, the first picture book of which was named one of NPR’s best books of the year. He is also a Pixar artist and has worked on films including The Incredibles, Ratatouille, Up, Toy Story 3, Coco, and Soul. His illustrations have been hailed as “reminiscent of classics like Harry the Dirty Dog and Curious George.” Visit him at www.theartofmikewu.com or on Instagram at @wudog23.
REVIEW
This lovely book centers on a young Japanese American girl who wants to shine and change the world. But changing the world isn't an easy thing to do, especially when those around you either don't see you or decide to mistreat you when you are different. Keiko experiences both of these things. But she doesn't let the challenges she faces stop her from moving forward. With the loving support of her family, she reaches out and makes new friends and leaves her mark on the world. The story follows Keiko from elementary school all the way to career and motherhood. The reader sees how Keiko persists in pursuing her dreams and then works to pass those character traits that helped her succeed on to her own daughter. The author's note at the end shares with readers how the author's own experiences as a Japanese American, daughter, and mother lead her to want to share this inspiring message with the world. In addition to following Keiko's story, each spread shares a different character trait that reminds readers of what characteristics are needed to help change the world for the better. Mike Wu's illustrations are adorable and beautifully compliment the touching text. I especially love that cover which shows young Keiko reaching her arms into the air reaching toward an origami crane that represents her dreams. A lovely book full of inspiring ideas and lovely illustrations.
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