Kira-Kira - Cynthia Kadohata
Book Synopsis: kira-kira (kee ra kee ra): glittering; shining Glittering. That's how Katie Takeshima's sister, Lynn, makes everything seem. The sky is kira-kira because its color is deep but see-through at the same time. The sea is kira-kira for the same reason and so are people's eyes. When Katie and her family move from a Japanese community in Iowa to the Deep South of Georgia, it's Lynn who explains to her why people stop on the street to stare, and it's Lynn who, with her special way of viewing the world, teaches Katie to look beyond tomorrow, but when Lynn becomes desperately ill, and the whole family begins to fall apart, it is up to Katie to find a way to remind them all that there is always something glittering -- kira-kira -- in the future.
This was one of the saddest stories that I've read all year. It takes you to a happy place and then out of nowhere sucker-punches you hard in the gut. Growing up, I remember my friends reading this book during D.E.A.R. (Drop Everything And Read) time. I never actually picked it up until this year when I went to the library in town. When I was younger, I used to read more series such as Lemony Snicket, C.S. Lewis, and J.K. Rowling. As I matured, I started reading standalone books, I still enjoy reading a great series from time to time (especially on long trips).
Although this book was predictable, I still enjoyed reading it... I just wish that Lynn was more likable - then maybe her loss would have affected me more. It seems as though I was turning each page and waiting for the inevitable. I guess that I would describe my own kira-kira as reading books. There's always a new story, some glittering new territories and far away places that hit close to home.
Rating: ★★★☆☆