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A review by maxcfb
From the Tops of the Trees by Kao Kalia Yang
5.0
Kao Kalia Yang writes some of the most gorgeous picture books I’ve ever seen, like [b:A Map Into the World|43272260|A Map Into the World|Kao Kalia Yang|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1563395342l/43272260._SX50_.jpg|67157267] and [b:The Most Beautiful Thing|50420562|The Most Beautiful Thing|Kao Kalia Yang|https://i.gr-assets.com/images/S/compressed.photo.goodreads.com/books/1592252972l/50420562._SX50_.jpg|75390919]—and this book is personal, recounting her childhood growing up in a Hmong refugee camp in Thailand, and how she learned about the world beyond the camp’s small confines.
Young Kalia’s life is confined, but it is still beautiful, with two caring parents, and several other young friends who make the most of their situation together. Though certainly, the melancholy and stuckness are not lost on the adults in the camp, nor are the poor conditions (one rule in particular is appalling to read about).
The ending of the story is unexpected and beautiful, although I won’t give anything away—just know that it is incredible.
Beyond the absolutely gorgeous writing, Rachel Wada’s illustrations are simply stunning, with neutral yet rich, layered colors that bring the solemn beauty of the world and the characters to life. There are a few spreads in particular that I keep coming back to again and again.
Click here to see the full review on my blog!
Young Kalia’s life is confined, but it is still beautiful, with two caring parents, and several other young friends who make the most of their situation together. Though certainly, the melancholy and stuckness are not lost on the adults in the camp, nor are the poor conditions (one rule in particular is appalling to read about).
The ending of the story is unexpected and beautiful, although I won’t give anything away—just know that it is incredible.
Beyond the absolutely gorgeous writing, Rachel Wada’s illustrations are simply stunning, with neutral yet rich, layered colors that bring the solemn beauty of the world and the characters to life. There are a few spreads in particular that I keep coming back to again and again.
Click here to see the full review on my blog!