Simone
Simone by Viet Thanh Nguyen, published by Astra Publishing House on May 7, 2024, is a 48-page illustrated book in English. This story follows a Vietnamese American girl named Simone, whose life is dramatically altered when a wildfire threatens her home. As she and her mother seek shelter, Simone learns about resilience and community through her experiences and conversations with others affected by the disaster.
In this narrative, Simone’s journey unfolds as she encounters firefighters and reflects on her mother’s past experiences with natural disasters. The book emphasizes themes of environmental awareness and social responsibility, showcasing how art can serve as a means of expression and healing during challenging times. With illustrations by Minnie Phan, this edition presents a poignant exploration of youth, creativity, and the importance of working together for a sustainable future.
Official synopsis Publisher
A Kirkus Best Picture Book of the Year 2024
A Kirkus Best Picture-Book Conversation Starter of 2024
A School Library Journal Best Picture Book 2024
From Pulitzer Prize-winning author Viet Thanh Nguyen and illustrator Minnie Phan comes an unforgettable story of a Vietnamese American girl whose life is transformed by a wildfire.
★ School Library Journal, starred review
★ Kirkus Reviews, starred review
When Simone is awakened by her mom as a wildfire threatens their home, it is the beginning of a life-changing journey. On their way to take shelter in a high school gym, the family passes firefighters from a prison unit battling the fire. Simone’s mom tells her that when she was a girl in Viet Nam, she was forced to evacuate her home after a flood. Joined by other children sheltering in the gym, Simone, a budding artist, encourages everyone to draw as a way to process their situation. After a few days, Simone and her mom are able to return to their home, which is fortunately still standing, and her outlook has changed. As Simone begins creating a piece of art with one of her new friends, she realizes that even though they are young, they can dream and work together for a more sustainable future. With a poetic, haunting family story by esteemed author Viet Thanh Nguyen and gorgeous art from illustrator Minnie Phan, this powerful tale introduces an unforgettable young heroine who awakens to a new role fighting for her community and for the future of the planet.
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