Julia and Patrick always work together on a project for the state fair. This year, they are having a hard time coming up with an idea that pleases them both. When Julia’s mother suggests they raise silkworms, as she did when she was growing up in Korea, Patrick embraces the idea wholeheartedly. Julia’s not so happy—raising silkworms doesn’t fit with the “all-American” projects usually found at the fair. As a member of the only Korean family in town, she’s uncomfortable drawing attention to her ethnicity. And the project isn’t easy—just where will they find the mulberry leaves the silkworms require as food? To add to her problems, Julia’s neglected to read through all the materials about raising silkworms—that’s Patrick’s job in their partnership—and she is shocked to discover killing the insects is a necessary component of the project. The absorbing story of the silkworm scheme provides a framework for a more subtle look at race and identity. By examining Julia’s mother’s discomfort when the only mulberry tree in town turns up on the lawn of an African American man, Linda Sue Park confronts a topic seldom seen in children’s books in this country: prejudice between non-Caucasian Americans. Brief sections between chapters relate a spirited dialogue between the character Julia and the novel’s author—an unusual and clever device that allows readers a unique perspective on a writer’s creative process. (Ages 9–12)

In this contemporary novel, Newbery Medalist Linda Sue Park delivers a funny, lively story that illuminates both the process of writing a novel and the meaning of growing up American.

"A rich work that treats serious issues with warmth, respect, and a good deal of humor" (Kirkus starred review). Perfect for both independent reading and classroom sharing.

Julia Song and her friend Patrick would love to win a blue ribbon, maybe even two, at the state fair. They’ve always done projects together, and they work well as a team. This time, though, they’re having trouble coming up with just the right project. Then Julia’s mother offers a suggestion: They can raise silkworms, as she did when she was a girl in Korea.

Patrick thinks it’s a great idea. Of course there are obstacles—for example, where will they get mulberry leaves, the only thing silkworms eat?—but nothing they can’t handle.

Julia isn’t so sure. The club where kids do their projects is all about traditional American stuff, and raising silkworms just doesn’t fit in. Moreover, the author, Ms. Park, seems determined to make Julia’s life as complicated as possible, no matter how hard Julia tries to talk her out of it.