WATERCRESS

Sunny Lu's youthful voice enlivens this poignant story inspired by the author's childhood memories. The narrator is a first-generation Chinese-American girl who is frustrated by her immigrant parents' embarrassing behavior, and, on this particular day, annoyed that she must collect watercress from a muddy roadside ditch. But her attitude changes once she understands the history behind her parents' emotional memories of this plant. Evocative music and environmental sound effects add subtle layers that enhance Lu's articulate delivery of the free-verse text. Her measured pacing allows listeners who are following along with the accompanying Caldecott-winning picture book to appreciate the illustrations. The back matter includes author and illustrator notes on the book's creation and the importance of sharing family stories with children. S.A.A. © AudioFile 2022, Portland, Maine [Published: AUGUST 2022]