Reviews: (by author)

Coerr. Eleanor. Illus. Deborah Kogran Ray. Chang's Paper Pony. New York: HarperCollins Children's Books, 1988. $3.95.

In Chang's Paper Pony, Eleanor Coerr describes the experiences of a young Chinese-American boy, Chang, who comes to America during the Gold Rush, a time in which he is faced with prejudices and discrimination. He helps his Grandfather Li manage the Gold Ditch Hotel. He longs for a pony, but what he really wants is a friend. A paper pony is all that they can afford until Chang befriends Big Pete, a miner who helps Chang get his real pony.

This book is appropriately written for emerging chapter book readers. This book is a perfect companion for young readers studying about the Chinese-Americans and the California Gold Rush. It can also serve as a springboard for discussions about the discrimination of the Chinese. In addition, young elementary school children will be able to relate to Chang. He is a young boy who desperately wants a pony and friends and who suffers from feelings of isolation and not fitting in.

What I liked about the content of this book was its historical accuracy and cultural sensitivity. Coerr was able to weave historical facts into this simple story about a boy's wish. Well worth the read.

Recommended by Virginia Loh.

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