We Who Produce Pearls: An Anthem for Asian America

Bold, pop art–style graphics and lyrical phrasing distinguish this powerful picture book “inspired by specific figures, events, and movements in Asia and across the Asian diaspora,” per an end note. Throughout, “we” statements (“We who dream... seek... cultivate”) hint at a rich history described more granularly in dynamic lines and thorough back matter (“We who persist,” for example, reflects on themes of empire and colonization). In reiterative, thoughtful text, Ho builds to the meaningful idea that “we... hold injustice in our mouths... and spit it out.” Phingbodhipakkiya’s crisp, bright-hued digital images possess a rich intensity, showing dozens of portraits depicted with various skin tones amid stylized bursts of flora, landscapes, and natural elements. In-depth back matter, including guided questions, starting points, and creators’ notes, concludes. Ages 4–8. (Apr.)