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The Most Beautiful Thing
A warmhearted and tender true story about a young girl finding beauty where she never thought to look.
Drawn from author Kao Kalia Yang's childhood experiences as a Hmong refugee, this moving picture book portrays a family with a great deal of love and little money. Weaving together Kalia's story with that of her beloved grandmother, the book moves from the jungles of Laos to the family's early years in the United States.
When Kalia becomes unhappy about having to do without and decides she wants braces to improve her smile, it is her grandmother—a woman who has just one tooth in her mouth—who helps her see that true beauty is found with those we love most. Stunning illustrations from Vietnamese illustrator Khoa Le bring this intergenerational tale to life.
"A deep and moving reflection on enduring hardship and generational love. . . . Poignant storytelling with stunning visuals."—starred, Kirkus Reviews"A sincere narrative that centers on the power of family love."—starred, School Library Journal
Minnesota Book Award Finalist, ALA Notable Children's Book, New York Public Library Best Book for Kids, NPR Best Book of the Year
Drawn from author Kao Kalia Yang's childhood experiences as a Hmong refugee, this moving picture book portrays a family with a great deal of love and little money. Weaving together Kalia's story with that of her beloved grandmother, the book moves from the jungles of Laos to the family's early years in the United States.
When Kalia becomes unhappy about having to do without and decides she wants braces to improve her smile, it is her grandmother—a woman who has just one tooth in her mouth—who helps her see that true beauty is found with those we love most. Stunning illustrations from Vietnamese illustrator Khoa Le bring this intergenerational tale to life.
"A deep and moving reflection on enduring hardship and generational love. . . . Poignant storytelling with stunning visuals."—starred, Kirkus Reviews"A sincere narrative that centers on the power of family love."—starred, School Library Journal
Minnesota Book Award Finalist, ALA Notable Children's Book, New York Public Library Best Book for Kids, NPR Best Book of the Year
32 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 6, 2020
40 people are currently reading
1014 people want to read
About the author
Kao Kalia Yang
27 books545 followersKao Kalia Yang is an award-winning Hmong-American writer. She is a graduate of Carleton College and Columbia University. Yang is the author of the memoirs The Latehomecomer: A Hmong Family Memoir and The Song Poet. The Latehomecomer is the first Asian American authored and centered book to be added to the roster of the Literature to Life Program and a National Endowment for the Arts Big Read title. The Song Poet has been commissioned as a youth opera by the Minnesota Opera and will premiere in the spring of 2021. Yang is also the author of the children’s books, A Map Into the World, The Shared Room, and The Most Beautiful Thing. She co-edited the ground-breaking collection What God is Honored Here?: Writings on Miscarriage and Infant Loss By and For Indigenous Women and Women of Color. Her newest title is Somewhere in the Unknown World, a collective memoir of refugee experiences. Yang’s literary nonfiction work has been recognized by the National Book Critics Circle Award, the Chautauqua Prize, the PEN USA literary awards, the Dayton’s Literary Peace Prize, and garnered three Minnesota Book awards. Her children’s books have been listed as an American Library Association Notable Book, a Zolotow Honor, a Kirkus Best Book of the Year, a finalist for the Midwest Independent Bookseller’s Award, and winner of a Minnesota Book Award in Children’s Literature. Kao Kalia Yang is a recipient of the International Institute of Minnesota’s Olga Zoltai Award for her community leadership and service to New Americans and the Ordway Center for the Performing Arts’ 2019 Sally Award for Social Impact.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 353 reviews
October 6, 2020
***NOW AVAILABLE***
This is a beautiful story about a young girl and her relationship with her Hmong grandmother. This book reminded me of the neighborhood where I grew up. It had many Polish immigrants and quite a few of my friends had their grandmothers or grandfathers living with them. They were taught to listen and respect them.
The illustrations in the book are vibrant and eye catching. One in particular, a picture of grandma's dream with a fearsome tiger, was particularly beautiful. "My grandma came from a time and a place where creatures lurked in the jungles waiting to chase unwary children. She told us that she once looked into the gleaming eyes of a tiger and felt its hot breath on her face." She is describing her childhood in Laos.
I think that it would be wonderful if children all had an elder relative who could share stories from a different time. It makes the world we live in feel a lot different. The children realize how much they have in terms of food, housing, etc. that wasn't always available to an older generation. This little girl decided that her grandmother's smile was "The Most Beautiful Thing".
A wonderful story beautifully illustrated. I can highly recommend this book for ages probably 5 and up.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley..
This is a beautiful story about a young girl and her relationship with her Hmong grandmother. This book reminded me of the neighborhood where I grew up. It had many Polish immigrants and quite a few of my friends had their grandmothers or grandfathers living with them. They were taught to listen and respect them.
The illustrations in the book are vibrant and eye catching. One in particular, a picture of grandma's dream with a fearsome tiger, was particularly beautiful. "My grandma came from a time and a place where creatures lurked in the jungles waiting to chase unwary children. She told us that she once looked into the gleaming eyes of a tiger and felt its hot breath on her face." She is describing her childhood in Laos.
I think that it would be wonderful if children all had an elder relative who could share stories from a different time. It makes the world we live in feel a lot different. The children realize how much they have in terms of food, housing, etc. that wasn't always available to an older generation. This little girl decided that her grandmother's smile was "The Most Beautiful Thing".
A wonderful story beautifully illustrated. I can highly recommend this book for ages probably 5 and up.
I received an ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley..
January 23, 2024
Lovely story of a young girl and her elderly grandmother. While the story was sweet, it was a bit choppy. Even for a children’s book.
The highlight is most definitely the gorgeous, brightly colored illustrations. Some pages leap out at you while others quietly charm. Really compliments the story.
(Reviewed 1/23/24)
The highlight is most definitely the gorgeous, brightly colored illustrations. Some pages leap out at you while others quietly charm. Really compliments the story.
(Reviewed 1/23/24)
May 24, 2022
Our storyteller is a Hmong refugee in the US and her grandmother lives with them. Helping to care for her grandmother helps our storyteller to learn about true beauty, sacrifice, and freedom. Both author and illustrator are from Laos and Vietnam giving us a lovely #ownvoices book to remind us that love is priceless.
January 20, 2021
I really, really, really love the cover and the amazing illustrations inside!
The story is authentic. It's nostalgic for me in so many ways.
The love of a family is well defined definitely!
I love books which talk about grandparents. And this one did it well I say.
Life lessons even for the adult me. If someone cannot afford something, it doesn't mean you are living a crappy life. Life is beautiful with a loving family. It's all that matters at the end of the day. This book tells this so vividly.
However,I wish the narration was more wholesome. I felt like some parts were incomplete as some pages seemed to end abruptly.
Loved this small book nevertheless.
Thanks #NetGalley for the ARC.
The story is authentic. It's nostalgic for me in so many ways.
The love of a family is well defined definitely!
I love books which talk about grandparents. And this one did it well I say.
Life lessons even for the adult me. If someone cannot afford something, it doesn't mean you are living a crappy life. Life is beautiful with a loving family. It's all that matters at the end of the day. This book tells this so vividly.
However,I wish the narration was more wholesome. I felt like some parts were incomplete as some pages seemed to end abruptly.
Loved this small book nevertheless.
Thanks #NetGalley for the ARC.
March 30, 2023
Câu chuyện về một cô gái nhận ra vẻ đẹp ở nơi bản thân chưa bao giờ nghĩ đến.
Nội dung của cuốn artbook kể về câu chuyện của chính gia đình tác giả - gia đình người Hmong tị nạn, nơi họ có tình yêu thương dù cuộc sống vẫn thiếu thốn. Đó là câu chuyện giữa Kalia và bà cô ấy.
Câu chuyện của quyển artbook ngọt ngào và cảm động, mình có thể đồng cảm cho câu chuyện của gia đình Kalia hay thậm chí là câu chuyện về cuộc sống khó khăn của người bà. Tiếc là về sau câu chuyện vẫn đi theo một hướng rất ý nghĩa, nhưng với mình nó chỉ 3☆ và mình cảm thấy nó chưa chạm tới cảm xúc của mình.
Bên cạnh đó, điểm đặc biệt cần phải nói là tranh minh họa. Tranh minh họa của quyển sách này do chị Khoa Lê vẽ quá ư là XUẤT SẮC!!! hầu như mình quan tâm tranh hơn là nội dung câu chuyện.
May 14, 2021
I agree with the Children's Books group that this is stunning. It is also important, as we Americans know almost nothing about Hmong culture, Laotian history. But the lessons are universal, too. Interesting to note that the glossary/pronunciation guide is almost hidden on the copyright page, however.
Two personal reflections give me more to say: Back when I lived near Mpls/St. Paul and was in teacher-training, we were all adapting to influx of refugees. And they to us - can you imagine coming from jungles that have tigers to arrive in Minnesota, where it's likely to be snow-free for only five months of the year?! What we had probably the most trouble thinking about was the fact that many of the families were very large; we weren't sure it was a good idea to keep having babies if you couldn't afford to feed them well.
This book helps us understand more of their point-of-view, with both respect for the harsh history lesson and joy for the hope of the future.
Two personal reflections give me more to say: Back when I lived near Mpls/St. Paul and was in teacher-training, we were all adapting to influx of refugees. And they to us - can you imagine coming from jungles that have tigers to arrive in Minnesota, where it's likely to be snow-free for only five months of the year?! What we had probably the most trouble thinking about was the fact that many of the families were very large; we weren't sure it was a good idea to keep having babies if you couldn't afford to feed them well.
This book helps us understand more of their point-of-view, with both respect for the harsh history lesson and joy for the hope of the future.
January 11, 2026
Read Around the World: Thailand
This is, quite simply, one of the most beautiful books I have ever read. Do not be fooled by its small size [there are only 32 pages here]; there is a lot going on here, in both text and the illustrations [which are amazing. Kudos to this awesome illustrator]. And it is simply stunning. Once you have read this, you will never forget it.
Based on the authors memories of her grandmother, this is a beautiful story of a child and her "ageless" grandmother and the stories she tells. Along with the chores the children get to do for the grandmother [who is both honored and revered in this home], which teach them patience and caring and grace, the stories she tells them of her past and her family are lessons every child should get the chance to hear.
I read this on my Kindle Fire and I was absolutely amazed at how the color of the illustrations came through. It was simply stunning. I cannot imagine how much more it would be in book form. But if you chose to get it in kindle form [to be read on the Fire or on an iPad], you will not be disappointed. This is an absolute must for children of all ages.
Thank you to NetGalley, Kao Kalia Yang, Khoa Le - Illustrator, and Lerner Publishing Group/Carolrhoda Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
This is, quite simply, one of the most beautiful books I have ever read. Do not be fooled by its small size [there are only 32 pages here]; there is a lot going on here, in both text and the illustrations [which are amazing. Kudos to this awesome illustrator]. And it is simply stunning. Once you have read this, you will never forget it.
Based on the authors memories of her grandmother, this is a beautiful story of a child and her "ageless" grandmother and the stories she tells. Along with the chores the children get to do for the grandmother [who is both honored and revered in this home], which teach them patience and caring and grace, the stories she tells them of her past and her family are lessons every child should get the chance to hear.
I read this on my Kindle Fire and I was absolutely amazed at how the color of the illustrations came through. It was simply stunning. I cannot imagine how much more it would be in book form. But if you chose to get it in kindle form [to be read on the Fire or on an iPad], you will not be disappointed. This is an absolute must for children of all ages.
Thank you to NetGalley, Kao Kalia Yang, Khoa Le - Illustrator, and Lerner Publishing Group/Carolrhoda Books for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
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May 24, 2022Our storyteller is a Hmong refugee in the US and her grandmother lives with them. Helping to care for her grandmother helps our storyteller to learn about true beauty, sacrifice, and freedom. Both author and illustrator are from Laos and Vietnam giving us a lovely #ownvoices book to remind us that love is priceless. *Review by Darla from Red Bridge*
February 28, 2021
Hmong-American author and memoirist Kao Kalia Yang turns to her own childhood and to her relationship with her grandmother in this poignant autobiographical picture-book. Helping to care for this beloved elder, listening to her stories about her childhood in Laos, and receiving some important wisdom from her, the narrator is given comfort and reassurance, when her family cannot afford to give her braces, by her grandmother's loving smile. Despite poverty and hardship, despite the fact that her grandmother has only one tooth left, this smile is the most beautiful thing...
I initially sought out The Most Beautiful Thing because I am an admirer of the illustrator, Vietnamese artist Khoa Le. I have read and enjoyed three of Le's own picture-books - The Cloud Princess , Sun and Moon Sisters and The Boy with the Big Hair - and was delighted to see that she is becoming better known here in the states, and receiving commissions from mainstream American publishers. Needless to say, the artwork here was absolutely gorgeous, with a beautifully deep but subtle color palette, elegantly stylized figures, and an overall composition that was as creative as it was appealing. The story was moving, highlighting how family love, as symbolized by the grandmother's smile, can hold people together during tough times, and bring beauty and joy to all. I was struck by the fact that Kao Kalia and her sister and cousins had to physically care for their grandmother, and found some of these scenes unexpectedly moving. As someone who lived apart from my grandparents as a child, this was not an experience I ever had, but I can understand it now, caring for my elderly mother. Highly recommended, to fellow Khoa Le fans, and to picture-book readers seeking stories about grandparents, immigrant families, poverty, and/or the Hmong-American experience.
I initially sought out The Most Beautiful Thing because I am an admirer of the illustrator, Vietnamese artist Khoa Le. I have read and enjoyed three of Le's own picture-books - The Cloud Princess , Sun and Moon Sisters and The Boy with the Big Hair - and was delighted to see that she is becoming better known here in the states, and receiving commissions from mainstream American publishers. Needless to say, the artwork here was absolutely gorgeous, with a beautifully deep but subtle color palette, elegantly stylized figures, and an overall composition that was as creative as it was appealing. The story was moving, highlighting how family love, as symbolized by the grandmother's smile, can hold people together during tough times, and bring beauty and joy to all. I was struck by the fact that Kao Kalia and her sister and cousins had to physically care for their grandmother, and found some of these scenes unexpectedly moving. As someone who lived apart from my grandparents as a child, this was not an experience I ever had, but I can understand it now, caring for my elderly mother. Highly recommended, to fellow Khoa Le fans, and to picture-book readers seeking stories about grandparents, immigrant families, poverty, and/or the Hmong-American experience.
January 17, 2021
A quick-read yet heart-warming book that tells the story of a Hmong family, one that describes the arduous upbringings of not only the old but also the young generations. Through only a few pages covered in eye-catching illustration, the book has depicted a genuine picture of most households who struggle with getting by in Laos’ rural areas.
It certainly offers a unique perspective, and personally I think it is quite amazing how such a story is brought to the reader’s attention, to somehow reminds oneself of sympathy and kindness towards others.
Perhaps there is one quote that captures the idea beautifully:
“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.”
It certainly offers a unique perspective, and personally I think it is quite amazing how such a story is brought to the reader’s attention, to somehow reminds oneself of sympathy and kindness towards others.
Perhaps there is one quote that captures the idea beautifully:
“Be kind, for everyone you meet is fighting a hard battle.”
May 15, 2020
It was a sweet story, kinda okay. But the illustrations were mesmerizing! They were stunning! I loved the illustrations more than the story.
October 3, 2020
It's been so long since I last read a children's book that I had forgotten the magic in them.
This book is beautifully written and even more beautifully illustrated. Drawn from the author's own childhood experiences as a Hmong refugee, this lovely story follows Kalia as she comes to realize that, even though her family has little money, they have a great deal of love. And Vietnamese illustrator Khoa Le does an incredible job in bringing the story to life in the most stunning way, all the way to the back cover. Absolutely flawless.
I know my 9 year-old niece would definitely love this book.
A big thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an e-ARC in exchange of an honest and voluntary review.
This book is beautifully written and even more beautifully illustrated. Drawn from the author's own childhood experiences as a Hmong refugee, this lovely story follows Kalia as she comes to realize that, even though her family has little money, they have a great deal of love. And Vietnamese illustrator Khoa Le does an incredible job in bringing the story to life in the most stunning way, all the way to the back cover. Absolutely flawless.
I know my 9 year-old niece would definitely love this book.
A big thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an e-ARC in exchange of an honest and voluntary review.
December 28, 2020
I loved this beautiful story about the love grandchildren have for their grandmother. She struggled through the worst of times, losing her parents, facing hunger, and ending up with only one tooth. They carefully tend to her needs, from bathing to nail clipping to feeding. As the granddaughter yearns for braces and ice cream, she’s satisfied with her life by coming to better understand what her grandmother has endured. The deep bonding and adoration jumps from these pages! The illustrations in this book were created with mixed media and Photoshop.
For more children's literature, middle grade literature, and YA literature reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo!
For more children's literature, middle grade literature, and YA literature reviews, feel free to visit my personal blog at The Miller Memo!
January 23, 2023
This book is about the author & her family, relationship with her grandmother.
They are Hmong refugee. I love that all the children love and take care of their grandmother and their bonding 😍. Your family can be poor and you can't afford a lot of things but love and bonding in a family is priceless. Sacrificing for your loved one, family is really beautiful.
This book reminds me of my dadi 🥺.
And I really really admire the illustration of this book which was done by a Vietnamese artist Khoa le. They are soooooooo beautiful 😍.
They are Hmong refugee. I love that all the children love and take care of their grandmother and their bonding 😍. Your family can be poor and you can't afford a lot of things but love and bonding in a family is priceless. Sacrificing for your loved one, family is really beautiful.
This book reminds me of my dadi 🥺.
And I really really admire the illustration of this book which was done by a Vietnamese artist Khoa le. They are soooooooo beautiful 😍.
May 11, 2020
Like many of those Asian inspire family story we often see nowadays this one as a very peaceful and beautiful art and at the same time a very slow family story. Those are always interesting but very slow and a bit long for younger readers so I would say only with more patient kids you want to learn m ore about living in other time and/or country.
September 5, 2020
Such a wholesome and heart touching story. It's for kids, yes, but I wish everyone would read this no matter what their age is because of the lesson it teaches us (of self acceptance). It have beautiful and colourful illustrations that an art enthusiast like me could stare at forever!! It takes 15 minutes to read this even if you do it slowly but something everyone should!
December 18, 2020
A poignant, heartfelt picture book memoir in which Yang draws on her personal experiences as a Hmong refugee centering on her relationship with her grandmother. Stunning mixed media illustrations by Khoa Le.
May 15, 2020
MOST BEAUTIFUL REVIEW & LINKS
THE MOST BEAUTIFUL is a gorgeously illustrated, intergenerational, story about a Hmong-American family who left their ancestral homeland in hopes of a better life.
The story is told from a young girl's point of view. Her family home includes her parents, her siblings and her grandmother.
As the child gets older, she will occasionally ask for something expensive from her parents. However, despite the fact that they worked hard, there was no money left over for extras. Her Grandmother is always around and tells stories of her own childhood and the hardships she faced. Obviously, the grandmother's situation was much more dire than that of the narrator.
The author has perfectly captured the aging of both the young girl and her grandmother. She also conveys the child's emotional intelligence and her maturity levels with perfect ease.
The illustrations in this book are nothing short of brilliant. In fact, I would love it if the artist offered prints of each of her layouts. I, for one, would 100% purchase them.
I should rate this book as 5 Stars, however I felt the ending could have been better. However, please DO NOT let this deter you from buying this book. We need more books from diverse and multicultural authors. It is imperative that children have access to books they can personally relate to. Also, children from other cultures should be exposed at a young age to books from diverse backgrounds.
Books such as THE MOST BEAUTIFUL THING are important in a multitude of ways. I am rating this book as 4.5 out of 5 Stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 1/2
To see some of the Amazing artwork from the Illustrator and to read more of my reviews, go to:
http://Amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
Also, be sure to follow me on Instagram at
http://www.instagram.com/Amiesbookrev...
And on Twitter at
http://www.twitter.com/Amiesbookreview
THE MOST BEAUTIFUL is a gorgeously illustrated, intergenerational, story about a Hmong-American family who left their ancestral homeland in hopes of a better life.
The story is told from a young girl's point of view. Her family home includes her parents, her siblings and her grandmother.
As the child gets older, she will occasionally ask for something expensive from her parents. However, despite the fact that they worked hard, there was no money left over for extras. Her Grandmother is always around and tells stories of her own childhood and the hardships she faced. Obviously, the grandmother's situation was much more dire than that of the narrator.
The author has perfectly captured the aging of both the young girl and her grandmother. She also conveys the child's emotional intelligence and her maturity levels with perfect ease.
The illustrations in this book are nothing short of brilliant. In fact, I would love it if the artist offered prints of each of her layouts. I, for one, would 100% purchase them.
I should rate this book as 5 Stars, however I felt the ending could have been better. However, please DO NOT let this deter you from buying this book. We need more books from diverse and multicultural authors. It is imperative that children have access to books they can personally relate to. Also, children from other cultures should be exposed at a young age to books from diverse backgrounds.
Books such as THE MOST BEAUTIFUL THING are important in a multitude of ways. I am rating this book as 4.5 out of 5 Stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐ 1/2
To see some of the Amazing artwork from the Illustrator and to read more of my reviews, go to:
http://Amiesbookreviews.wordpress.com
Also, be sure to follow me on Instagram at
http://www.instagram.com/Amiesbookrev...
And on Twitter at
http://www.twitter.com/Amiesbookreview
November 17, 2021
This book is so heart- warming, so sweet! It is a short book and the illustrations are amazing!
The Most Beautiful Thing is full of life lessons. The morals and truths of this book made me reflect on my own actions. I must say that it is not just for children, a grown man can learn a lot from it.
The Most Beautiful Thing is full of life lessons. The morals and truths of this book made me reflect on my own actions. I must say that it is not just for children, a grown man can learn a lot from it.
September 30, 2021
A picture book about the author’s relationship with her grandmother in a Hmong refugee family. Lovely illustrations. Read via library.
May 10, 2021
I highly recommend The Most Beautiful Thing. It's receiving a lot of praise and all deservedly so, in my opinion. It's written by Hmong-American author and memoirist Kao Kalia Yang and reflects on her own childhood and her relationship with her grandmother. It is, truly, a beautiful story and touched me deeply. The girl's grandmother is beloved and revered, an important part of the family for her love and wisdom, all the facets of her past, her bravery and courage, the reassurance and guidance she still gives to the family... even though her physical body is no longer strong. The tasks that the author chooses to highlight (cutting the grandmother's toenails, for example) are jobs that many grandchildren in Western society might cringe at... yet the girl feels honored to do this for her grandmother, whose feet once walked many miles trying to find food for the grandmother's orphaned siblings, and even once were cut and bleeding as she outran a tiger. The girl's family is loving and supportive of one another, even though they are struggling financially. As the girl grows, she begins to wish for some of the luxuries of American life, she wishes she could get braces... but her grandmother's beautifully imperfect smile reminds her of what is truly important. The illustrations are excellent, as well.
As I said, this touched me deeply and I had tears in my eyes by the end of it. Even though I had what I consider to be a close relationship with my grandparents, I certainly didn't have the bonding moments this girl shared with her grandmother. I can't help but feel that we have lost something important in our Western culture by not having our elders a closer part of our lives. I say "our" though I know many people do care for elderly parents and grandparents, and some are unable to do so even if they wished to due to personal situations, but in American society as a whole the elderly seem so marginalized. I saddens me deeply.
As I said, this touched me deeply and I had tears in my eyes by the end of it. Even though I had what I consider to be a close relationship with my grandparents, I certainly didn't have the bonding moments this girl shared with her grandmother. I can't help but feel that we have lost something important in our Western culture by not having our elders a closer part of our lives. I say "our" though I know many people do care for elderly parents and grandparents, and some are unable to do so even if they wished to due to personal situations, but in American society as a whole the elderly seem so marginalized. I saddens me deeply.
July 12, 2020
A rich, lavishly-illustrated tender story of a young girl who learns from her grandmother’s difficult-but-beautiful life.
January 11, 2021
Featured in grandma reads session.
The Most Beautiful Thing is a lovely window into the culture and multi-generational family life of a Hmong girl, Kalia, who has a grandma living with her family. They have challenges at the most basic levels. My group was captivated and engaged from the very first page - I was uncertain that they would be, so was pleased when each page had them eager for the next.
I must admit my choice may have been slightly self-serving since the ultimate point of the book is to love the grandma you got, and appreciate her particular kind of beauty (this Hmong grandma has one lovely tooth and a beautiful smile). I flashed all my pearlies at the end, to the laughing crowd. A lovely book.
The Most Beautiful Thing is a lovely window into the culture and multi-generational family life of a Hmong girl, Kalia, who has a grandma living with her family. They have challenges at the most basic levels. My group was captivated and engaged from the very first page - I was uncertain that they would be, so was pleased when each page had them eager for the next.
I must admit my choice may have been slightly self-serving since the ultimate point of the book is to love the grandma you got, and appreciate her particular kind of beauty (this Hmong grandma has one lovely tooth and a beautiful smile). I flashed all my pearlies at the end, to the laughing crowd. A lovely book.
July 20, 2020
This is such a beautiful book and the illustrations were out of this world— Khoa Le literally brought the story to life with her work.
I read this book on my phone and the brilliance of the drawings weren’t lost to me.
The Most Beautiful Things is a story about a young girl, Kalia, coming to a realization that most adults don’t even acquire in their life time and she credited that realization to the moments she spent with her grandmother.
Asides lessons of contentment and “finding happiness in the mundane”, I think this book teaches that giving ourselves and our time in acts of services to our loved ones can end up bringing us more fulfillment and realizations than we would have gotten if we spent those efforts towards ourselves.
Brilliant book!
I read this book on my phone and the brilliance of the drawings weren’t lost to me.
The Most Beautiful Things is a story about a young girl, Kalia, coming to a realization that most adults don’t even acquire in their life time and she credited that realization to the moments she spent with her grandmother.
Asides lessons of contentment and “finding happiness in the mundane”, I think this book teaches that giving ourselves and our time in acts of services to our loved ones can end up bringing us more fulfillment and realizations than we would have gotten if we spent those efforts towards ourselves.
Brilliant book!
September 24, 2021
The Most Beautiful Children's Book Ever Written and Illustrated!
I write this as a 65 year old life-long children's book lover and some children's librarian experience in my past. I am a grandmother who was moved to tears as I read this beautifully illustrated, beautifully written book. It touched my heart in more ways than you can imagine. Living in an isolated rural community has deprived me of culture and diversity for over 30 years now. The book is soothing to my soul. To have the realization of a sense of family history and love I read of in this book is profound. I never in my life have read such a beautiful book!
I write this as a 65 year old life-long children's book lover and some children's librarian experience in my past. I am a grandmother who was moved to tears as I read this beautifully illustrated, beautifully written book. It touched my heart in more ways than you can imagine. Living in an isolated rural community has deprived me of culture and diversity for over 30 years now. The book is soothing to my soul. To have the realization of a sense of family history and love I read of in this book is profound. I never in my life have read such a beautiful book!
November 3, 2021
A tender and beautiful story about a Hmong girl's love for her grandmother.
Here's a video of the author reading it aloud if you'd like to hear the flavor of the Hmong words.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JS55q...
Here's a video of the author reading it aloud if you'd like to hear the flavor of the Hmong words.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JS55q...
July 11, 2021
Beautifully illustrated and written story of Hmong refugees, based loosely on Yang's grandmother.
October 17, 2020
This is a lovely children’s picture book about respecting older family members and that love is all we need.
Beautiful illustrations & Vietnamese representation. Perfect addition to a primary school or early years bookshelf.
Beautiful illustrations & Vietnamese representation. Perfect addition to a primary school or early years bookshelf.
August 10, 2020
Tell me, what do you consider being the most beautiful thing?
Is it a palace, an expensive car or maybe a diamond ring?
Kao Kalia Yang shows us that beauty's got nothing to do with what's mentionned above
That it's no matter of money, but simply of being surrounded by family, memories and love
Based on a true story
In this picture book Kao Kalia Yang tells us about her childhood during which there was not much money but an abundance of love.
Along with her grandmother - who had to flee Laos as a Hmong refugee - she forms the protagonist of this true life story.
Themes
Although it's commendable that important topics like poverty, Hmong-refugees, … are covered, this has both an up- and a downside.
Because of the large number of topics, none of the themes is discussed in depth. Although that isn't necessary for a children's book, it sometimes results in a lack of background information.
The serious themes are portrayed lifelike, but because of this they may not always be suitable for a younger target group. At least not without the guidance of an adult to provide further clarification.
On the other hand, this book forms a good starter to discover another (and for many people probably an unknown) culture. Especially when a parent or teacher guides the reading.
Hmong
A lot of Hmong-names are used throughout 'The Most Beautiful Thing'.
Do you want to know the correct pronuncation? Head over to this video where Kao Kalia Yang tells it herself.
For those who are not familiar with the Hmong-people, there are lots of interesting resources on the internet:
- 10 things about Hmong culture, food and language you probably didn't know
- Hmong timeline
- Country of origin - Geography: Laos - History and Politics - Language - Interpersonal relationships - Marriage, Family and Kinship structure - Reproduction - Infancy, Childhood and Socialization - Adolescence, Adulthood and Old Age - …
- …
Kao Kalia Yang
If you're interested in the story of Kao Kalia Yang and her family, then it's highly recommended to listen to her TED-talk The Power in Sharing our Stories!
Khoa Le
Do you want a taste of the drawing style of the illustrator of this book?
She has a website where you can find her portfolio.
Be sure to take a look at the section picture book because those pictures really demonstrate her talent for vibrant colour creations!
*Disclaimer: Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this free e-book in exchange for an honest review.
Is it a palace, an expensive car or maybe a diamond ring?
Kao Kalia Yang shows us that beauty's got nothing to do with what's mentionned above
That it's no matter of money, but simply of being surrounded by family, memories and love
Based on a true story
In this picture book Kao Kalia Yang tells us about her childhood during which there was not much money but an abundance of love.
Along with her grandmother - who had to flee Laos as a Hmong refugee - she forms the protagonist of this true life story.
Themes
Although it's commendable that important topics like poverty, Hmong-refugees, … are covered, this has both an up- and a downside.
Because of the large number of topics, none of the themes is discussed in depth. Although that isn't necessary for a children's book, it sometimes results in a lack of background information.
The serious themes are portrayed lifelike, but because of this they may not always be suitable for a younger target group. At least not without the guidance of an adult to provide further clarification.
On the other hand, this book forms a good starter to discover another (and for many people probably an unknown) culture. Especially when a parent or teacher guides the reading.
Hmong
A lot of Hmong-names are used throughout 'The Most Beautiful Thing'.
Do you want to know the correct pronuncation? Head over to this video where Kao Kalia Yang tells it herself.
For those who are not familiar with the Hmong-people, there are lots of interesting resources on the internet:
- 10 things about Hmong culture, food and language you probably didn't know
- Hmong timeline
- Country of origin - Geography: Laos - History and Politics - Language - Interpersonal relationships - Marriage, Family and Kinship structure - Reproduction - Infancy, Childhood and Socialization - Adolescence, Adulthood and Old Age - …
- …
Kao Kalia Yang
If you're interested in the story of Kao Kalia Yang and her family, then it's highly recommended to listen to her TED-talk The Power in Sharing our Stories!
Khoa Le
Do you want a taste of the drawing style of the illustrator of this book?
She has a website where you can find her portfolio.
Be sure to take a look at the section picture book because those pictures really demonstrate her talent for vibrant colour creations!
*Disclaimer: Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for providing this free e-book in exchange for an honest review.
October 4, 2020
This is such a simple yet beautiful book. It packs so much in less than 50 pages. It took me back to my conversations with my grandma, sitting at her feet and listening to her tell stories from her youth - both normal and paranormal, spending time combing her hair, helping her bathe, how my cousins and siblings fought to be the one to be her aide.
The immediately arresting art of this book is beautiful beyond words and is as much a part of the story as the words. The artwork speaks so much with its mesmerising and intricate style. I am sure I will find myself going back to this book to study the art and consume it over and over again, finding new details each time.
This book is an OwnVoices semi-memoir from a Hmong refugee and it tells a tale of living with poverty as immigrants to the US. It is rife with Hmong heritage and culture but it exists in the small things - the oft told stories, how the festivals are celebrated, how a family exists together. It evoked the feeling of my own childhood, remembering how my grandma got smaller while I grew larger, how she never thought anything wrong with my body or personality while I fussed over them incessantly. This is a charming book which shows how Asian communities live in multigenerational families.
Thanks to Carolrhoda Books for providing me with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinions.
Find me elsewhere: Blog | BookTube | Instagram | Twitter | The Story Graph
The immediately arresting art of this book is beautiful beyond words and is as much a part of the story as the words. The artwork speaks so much with its mesmerising and intricate style. I am sure I will find myself going back to this book to study the art and consume it over and over again, finding new details each time.
This book is an OwnVoices semi-memoir from a Hmong refugee and it tells a tale of living with poverty as immigrants to the US. It is rife with Hmong heritage and culture but it exists in the small things - the oft told stories, how the festivals are celebrated, how a family exists together. It evoked the feeling of my own childhood, remembering how my grandma got smaller while I grew larger, how she never thought anything wrong with my body or personality while I fussed over them incessantly. This is a charming book which shows how Asian communities live in multigenerational families.
Thanks to Carolrhoda Books for providing me with an ARC via NetGalley in exchange for my honest opinions.
Find me elsewhere: Blog | BookTube | Instagram | Twitter | The Story Graph
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