Description
Book Synopsis: A New York Times Bestseller, Margi Preus’s Heart of a Samurai is “a terrific biographical novel” (Wall Street Journal), filled with international adventure, a look at cultural differences, and both American and Japanese history. A John Newbery Medal Winner An NPR Backseat Book Club pick
In 1841, a Japanese fishing vessel sinks. Its crew is forced to swim to a small, unknown island, where they are rescued by a passing American ship. Japan’s borders remain closed to all Western nations, so the crew sets off to America, learning English on the way.
Manjiro, a 14-year-old boy, is curious and eager to learn everything he can about this new culture. Eventually the captain adopts Manjiro and takes him to his home in New England. The boy lives there for some time and then heads to San Francisco to pan for gold. After many years, he makes it back to Japan, only to be imprisoned as an outsider.
With his hard-won knowledge of the West, Manjiro is in a unique position to persuade the emperor to ease open the boundaries around Japan; he may even achieve his unlikely dream of becoming a samurai.
This award-winning adventure novel will thrill and enrich every young reader who picks it up. “Illustrated with Manjiro’s own pencil drawings in addition to other archival material and original art from Tamaki, this is a captivating fictionalized (although notably faithful) retelling of the boy’s adventures. Capturing his wonder, remarkable willingness to learn, the prejudice he encountered and the way he eventually influenced officials in Japan to open the country, this highly entertaining page-turner.” —Kirkus Reviews (Starred Review)
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Get ready to embark on an incredible journey of adventure, cultural exploration, and historical significance with Margi Preus's Heart of a Samurai. This New York Times Bestseller is not only a gripping biographical novel, but also a captivating tale that sheds light on the cultural differences between America and Japan. Discover the untold story of Manjiro, a courageous 14-year-old boy who survives a shipwreck and is rescued by an American vessel. As he immerses himself in the new world, he becomes an unlikely ambassador between Japan and the West.
With its rich narrative and meticulous attention to detail, Heart of a Samurai stands out as a must-read for young readers who crave thrilling adventures. Winner of the prestigious John Newbery Medal and a favorite of the NPR Backseat Book Club, this book has been praised for its ability to transport readers to a bygone era. Prepare to be enthralled as you join Manjiro on his pursuit of knowledge, his search for identity, and his quest to become a samurai.
What sets Heart of a Samurai apart is its authenticity. Margi Preus expertly weaves historical facts with Manjiro's personal story. From his immersion into American culture to his gold panning adventures in San Francisco, every twist and turn keeps readers on the edge of their seats. Prepare to be amazed by Manjiro's resilience, his willingness to overcome prejudice, and his determination to open Japan's closed borders to the world.
Don't miss this incredible opportunity to dive deep into history while being thoroughly entertained. Experience the wonders of this award-winning adventure novel that will leave you inspired and yearning for more. Find out why Kirkus Reviews raves about Heart of a Samurai, describing it as a "captivating fictionalized retelling" that captures the essence of Manjiro's incredible legacy. Embark on this unforgettable journey today.
Click here to explore the captivating world of Heart of a Samurai and join Manjiro on his extraordinary adventure!
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