Eyes That Kiss in the Corners

Some of the other little girls’ eyes are sapphire, and their lashes are long and frilly like lace, but hers “kiss in the corners and glow like warm tea.” They’re like Mama’s who blesses her with love and acceptance, confidence and self-assurance. Mama is her world. Amah’s eyes don’t have the acuity they once did, but they see into her heart and connect with her thoughts. In them, are stories that carry her away to far-off lands. Mei-Mei has eyes like hers, too, that disappear when her smile threatens to engulf them. They envision things real and imaginary, and they are unique and beautiful, just like hers.

This story has delightfully rich illustrations and gorgeous language woven together by similes, imagery, and prose. It’s about the beauty of diversity as well as family and the positivity parents and grandparents can cast on their children’s lives and the way they see themselves in the world at large. Eyes That Kiss in the Corners is a contribution to literature in its celebration of identity and culture. It’ll appeal most to children ages six to nine, but may also be a valued gift for youth ages four to five. Teachers of early elementary education will find it a treasurable addition and a wonderful resource for their classrooms.