Brothers

Brothers. Yin. Illus. by Chris Soentpiet. New York: Philomel Books, 2006. 32 pages. $16.99 (Hardcover). ISBN 0-399-23406-3. Grades 2-4.

Brothers are not only linked by blood, but friendship and circumstance. Young Ming has arrived in San Francisco to join his older brothers who emigrated from China years before. When he arrives he is sequestered to his brother Shek’s floundering Chinese grocery. As Ming tends the store he longs for a friend or a steady flow of business. He finally grows bored and ventures beyond the boundaries of Chinatown where he meets Patrick, a second generation Irish immigrant. These two boys bond over English lessons and games of marbles, and when the future of the grocery looks dim they work together to turn it around. Not only does Yin tell a touching story of acceptance and friendship, but he also highlights the struggles of Chinese immigrants in America in the mid 1800s. Although the brutal extent of racism towards the Chinese is omitted from this book, Yin does make sure to mention their circumstances. The beautiful, rich illustrations of Chris Soentpiet bring the story to life and really place readers in that time period. A resource list and historical information are included in the author’s note at the end of the book, which will help readers separate fact from fiction and learn about the history behind this story.Recommended