SAKURA: Cherry Blossoms

by Stacey Culpepper, Stephanie Ortiz (Illustrator)

SAKURA is the Japanese word for cherry blossoms. These trees are known for their exquisite beauty and restoration. Their flowers only bloom a few weeks, but they flourish without fail every year. Maiko is a girl born and raised in Los Angeles, California. She is looking forward to attending middle school with her brother Masaki, and best friend Kailani. Her parents have decided to move the family to Las Vegas, Nevada to improve the quality of their family life. She feels torn away from the only friends and family she’s ever known. Can Maiko find happiness in a new environment where she is a complete stranger? How does she deal with the unexpected tragedy of a loved one? Discover how Maiko sprouts from the rooted bonds dug by both her (grandmothers) obaachan from Okinawa, and abuela from Mexico. Take this journey with Maiko and experience how she discovers who she is, and learns to embrace that young woman. I developed this story to help young readers recognize the power of a positive mindset, during the most challenging times in life.

54 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 13, 2021

About the author

I was born in Los Angeles, California and have lived in Indiana, New York, and the country of Panama. Living in these varied environments helped shape my attraction to cultural diversity. I am a former school librarian and loved watching how children would become engrossed in story time! My expressive outlet has been writing since the age of seven, but I have recently ventured into publishing my works publicly. I see the need for more diversity in children's books and authors. When children sees themselves mirrored in stories, it enhances their reading & life experience. Besides writing I love dance, music, and international travel. I am grateful to have a supportive husband along with my family and friends.