Coolies
| Industrial Age |
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 Coolies
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American History > Industrial Age
Shek marvels at the new world as he and his brother, Little Wong, arrive in California. Along with hundreds of other workers, the brothers are going to build a great railroad across the West. They plan to save enough money so that their mother and little brothers can join them in America. But as days grow into months, they endure many hardships-exhausting work, discrimination, and treacherous avalanches. Inspired by actual events, this story reveals the harsh truth about life for the Chinese railroad workers in 1865, while celebrating their perseverance and bravery.
Emily's Review
This is an important and beautiful book. The artwork is absolutely stunning and adds so much to the story.
I love that the history is focused on the lives of two brothers who came to America to seek their fortune. We get to experience what life was like for the Chinese who came to America and their often overlooked contribution to the country. I also liked how the term "coolie" which started as a negative was flipped into a badge of honor.
This book is a wonderful peek into Chinese history and culture, and a great addition to any American history curriculum!
Other Similar Books
Other suggestions on the subject of the Transcontinental Railroad.
- Coolies (by: Yin, Soentpiet, Chris, LE, MG)
- Dragon's Gate (by: Yep, Lawrence, UMG)
- Gold Mountain (by: Yee, Betty G., YA, A)