This story is a good story with important lessons for kids about their different cultures, and experiences. The reader follows the main character, Clara Lee and her life as a Korean- American girl in an all American school. Clara often finds herself comparing her life to the lives her peers, especially one girl in her class, who she is competing against in a pageant. After her grandfather notices these feelings in Clara, he reminds her how her multicultural life doesn't make her less than the rest, but more. This book would be a good one to teach to young children in a classroom. Not only does it expose them to different cultures, but there could be a student in the classroom who can relate to Clara. ( )

This novel explores the challenges of being non-American and children can be exposed to different cultures than what they are use to.

Summary: Clara Lee has a dream the her grandfather is killed by the mustache man when she tells her father about this dream he tells her that in the Chinese culture it is actually good luck the have a dream about someone dying. After learning this Clara pays close attention to the good things that happen to her through out the day. Her belief in her self and her luck wavers when it comes time for the The Little Miss Apple Pie contest. She does not believe she is American enough to win but with the help of her grandfather she discovers she is more American than she thinks.

Personal Reaction: This book is very good for all children especially those of a minority. It may help them to feel more accepted and not alone.

Classroom Extension:
1)Children will learn the differences and the similarities of different cultures and ethnicities.
2)Children could create a dream journal and improve on their writing skills

Clara Lee's streak of good luck inspires her to try out for the coveted Little Miss Apple Pie, even though a classmate hints Clara Lee's Korean family hasn't lived in Bramley long enough for Clara Lee to win. Clara Lee is full of perk and gumption, overcoming any tiny doubts she might have. The bold, black and white illustrations are attractive and expressive. ( )

Summary:
This story is about a young Asian/American girl and she has a dream about her grandfather passing away. Her grandfather tells her that in their Asian cultural having a dream of someone passing away is actually a sign of goodluck. The next day Clara lee feels very lucky from her dream but all that changes when she runs into another runner for Little Miss Apple contestant at the fall festival.Her competitor told her her family is as American just as apple pie.This upsets Clara and she no longer feels lucky. Claras grandfather tells her with out luck she has a chance getting Little Miss Apple regardless if she is mixed.

Personal reaction:
I liked reading this book and how the grandfather reassures her that regardless if shes full American that she has a chance to win like anyone else.

Classroom extension ideas:
1.The kids could draw a picture of something they think is a symbol of luck for example a clover.
2. The kids could go around and say something nice to a friend that is different then them. ( )