A Suitcase of seaweed

1. BIBLIOGRAPHY
Wong, Janet S. 1996. A SUITCASE OF SEAWEED AND OTHER POEMS. New York, NY: Margaret K. McElderry Books. ISBN: 0-689-80788-0.

2. SUMMARY
This collection of 36 poems has been arranged by the author in three different sections; Korean poems, Chinese poems and American poems. Each section is preceded with a small narrative by the author explaining how each culture is a part of her life and reflected in her heritage. Most of the poems are free verse with only two poems that truly rhyme. There are no illustrations, only ‘decorations’ provided by the author at the start of each new chapter.

3. CRITICAL ANALYSIS
These poems go beyond simple recitations about being different and transcend what could be limiting subjects in the hands of lesser writers. The poems are particularly effective as they focus on the culturally ubiquitous themes of food and family. Even when falling flat, Wong’s poems evoke strong mental images and will be understood and appreciated by most readers. The emotional palette used is a rich and varied one, with many humorous poems like “Acupuncture” and “Campfire”, and some that inspire somber moods like “Beat” and “In the Hospital Room.”

All children will find at least a few poems in this volume with whom they can identify. It’s a must have for any library collection.

4. REVIEW EXCERPTS
School Library Journal - People may ask Asian-Americans "Where are you from?" This collection, appropriate for YAs of any culture, may make this question less relevant and important as they realize the commonalties among cultures.
Booklist - The poems overlap their ethnicity and subject, of course, and young people will recognize many of the situations, whether Wong is imagining her parents' "Love at First Sight" or chafing at their high expectations and their disappointment.

5. CONNECTIONS
These poems can be a great bridge to free verse for children who are ready to move beyond Shel Silverstein
Wong, Janet. NIGHT GARDEN: POEMS FROM THE WORLD OF DREAMS.
ISBN 0689826176.