Reviewer: Erica Young
Published: January 2021
Series: N/A
Genres: Picture Book, Realistic Fiction, Asian Literature,
Grade Levels: Preschool, Pre-K, K, 1, 2, 3
Content Warnings: n/a
Goodreads Link: Eyes that Kiss in the Corners
Publisher’s Summary:
A young Asian girl notices that her eyes look different from her peers’. They have big, round eyes and long lashes. She realizes that her eyes are like her mother’s, her grandmother’s, and her little sister’s. They have eyes that kiss in the corners and glow like warm tea, crinkle into crescent moons, and are filled with stories of the past and hope for the future Drawing from the strength of these powerful women in her life, she recognizes her own beauty and discovers a path to self-love and empowerment. This powerful, poetic picture book will resonate with readers of all ages.
Review:
I love the descriptive language the author uses. “Mama’s eyes that kiss in the corners and glow like warm tea crinkle into crescent moons when she comes home from work.” The language is rich and descriptive. It feels cozy. You can feel the text. This is a great story to remind children that we are different, and yet we are all special. In this case, our eyes tell a story, and we all have a story to share. I purchased this book soon after it was published and it is one of my favorites for the language alone. I highly recommend this book.
What I especially appreciate is how naturally this book affirms identity without ever feeling like a lecture. The narrator’s shift from comparison to pride is gentle and powerful, and it gives young readers a clear message, you can notice differences and still feel connected, valued, and beautiful. The family connections also add warmth, showing how traits, culture, and love are passed down through generations.
This is an excellent mentor text for craft, too. The imagery and similes are vivid and accessible for kids, making it perfect for noticing language that creates mood and meaning. Pair it with a “noticing” chart for sensory details, then invite students to write a few lines describing something unique about themselves using the same kind of poetic comparisons. It also connects beautifully to SEL conversations about self-esteem, belonging, and celebrating what makes each person special.
