When Words Have Power - by Lisa Chong (Paperback)

About the Book

"Henry and his mother overhear someone calling them a strange name, which leads to a introspective conversation about the powerful effect microaggressions and name calling can have"--

Book Synopsis

With gentleness and empathy, this beautiful story follows a young boy as he learns how a word that may seem funny to one person can be hurtful to another.

"When Words Have Power. . . follows a boy as he learns how a word that may seem funny to one person can be hurtful to another."
-Publishers Weekly, Fall Children's Announcements

Henry overhears someone calling his Chinese American mother a strange name at the market: "banana." But Henry doesn't understand. A banana is just a piece of fruit. What's the big deal? And what does the name mean?

With beautiful illustrations, When Words Have Power gently reveals the powerful effect microaggressions and name calling can have, and instead shows how a little kindness and respect can lead to bright, new friendships and stronger relationships with loved ones.

Review Quotes

"When Words Have Power by Lisa Chong, illus. by Kaitlin Yang, follow[s] an Asian American boy who learns about the power of words during his everyday encounters."
-Publishers Weekly, Fall 2022 Children's Sneak Previews

"Through beautiful full-page illustrations and vignettes, Henry, our protagonist, learns a valuable lesson about the effects that microaggressions and undesired nicknames can have on people... The art ranges from printed to hand-drawn and invite the reader the linger, especially with the variety of bright colors used. Overall I really enjoyed the storyline, the lesson, and the illustrations that helped to tie together an important lesson." -Youth Services Book Review