The experience of speaking a second language in social situations is one motif that runs through the book.īecker started Himawari House as a webtoon on the Tapas platform, but she took a break to illustrate George Takei’s memoir, They Called Us Enemy. The two male roommates are Japanese brothers, one of whom speaks English well, and one who has more difficulty. The story is told mostly through the eyes of Nao, a Japanese American woman who spent her early childhood in Japan and wants to reconnect with that part of herself, although some parts are told from the points of view of the other two women: Hyung, who is from Korea and Tina, who is from Singapore. 'Both hilarious and tender situations abound as this insightful graphic novel explores, among other topics, how language can either separate or bring people together.Harmony Becker’s YA graphic novel Himawari House(First Second) follows a year in the life of five young adults from four countries-the U.S., Singapore, Korea, and Japan-who live together in a group house for students in Japan. 'In this stunningly layered graphic novel debut, Becker crafts a warmly actualized world in which the multiplicities of diasporic Asian identity are examined and held close.' - Publisher's Weekly, starred review '.An immersive graphic novel that explores cross-cultural identity and the power of language to separate and to unite.' - The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books, starred review ' makes her stupendous solo debut in what will prove to one of the best graphic titles of the year.Audiences can expect absolute delight.' - Booklist, starred review 'This lighthearted yet serious-minded journey of discovery will delight, educate, and challenge teens interested in language and cultural exploration.' - School Library Journal, starred review An unforgettable story of personal growth in an exquisitely rendered setting.' - Kirkus, starred review 'This work exemplifies what the graphic novel format can achieve.

'This emotionally and culturally rich YA story that puts the author's range of talents on full display.adventures rendered with a masterful hand and an impressive ear for dialogue.' - Washington Post

All told, “Himawari House” will comfort young readers who are imagining their lives ahead and trigger nostalgic joy in older readers looking back.' - New York Times The story will tug at your heartstrings and make you laugh. 'Becker’s art is intricate and rich at times, quick and playful at others. Himawari House is a tantalizing peek into the future of our global society.' - George Takei, author of New York Times-bestseller They Called Us Enemy Harmony Becker's story resonates with humanity and deep wisdom. 'There is humor and charm in the intersection of languages and understandings.

Himawari house review