Prairie Lotus

By: Linda Sue Park

Narrated by: Emily Woo Zeller

Prairie Lotus is a powerful, touching, multilayered book about a girl determined to fit in and realize her dreams: getting an education, becoming a dressmaker in her father's shop, and making at least one friend.

Acclaimed, award-winning author Linda Sue Park has placed a young half-Asian girl, Hanna, in a small town in America's heartland, in 1880. Hanna's adjustment to her new surroundings, which primarily means negotiating the townspeople's almost unanimous prejudice against Asians, is at the heart of the story. Told from the viewpoint of Hanna, the novel has poignant moments yet sparkles with humor, introducing a captivating heroine whose wry, observant voice will resonate with readers. Afterword.

★ "Fans of the Little House books will find many of the small satisfactions of Laura's stories...here in abundance. Park brings new depth to these well-trodden tales, though, as she renders visible both the xenophobia of the town's white residents, which ranges in expression from microaggressions to full-out assault, and Hanna's fight to overcome it with empathy and dignity.... Remarkable." --Kirkus, STARRED review

As a teacher I hope children read this!

A fantastic story with many opportunities to question and discuss issues we face today while learning of life long ago in America.

A WONDERFUL story! 🥰

This book is good for the heart and soul, eloquently written, and a refreshing perspective!

The power of historical fiction

The MC is one you want to succeed...the people she cares about become who we care about. She has the grit and determination of girl power in a world that stacked against her. Great MG listen.

I love that this book mimics Little House Books.

I love the story. I wish it were a series that went deeper into the lives of Hannah and her father.

Wonderfully engaging!

A beautiful story about courage, friendship and love. Suitable for 12 and up. Gentle Conversation starter for the unjust treatment of immigrants and indigenous peoples.