Shang, Wendy Wan-Long. The Secret Battle of Evan Pao. Fiction. Scholastic, 06/2022. 272pp. $17.99. 978-1-338-67885-7. HIGH ADDITIONAL. GRADES 4 – 7.
Family circumstances force Evan Pao and his mom and sister to relocate from California to Haddington, Virgina, a town where ancestral connections to the Confederacy remain a source of pride for many residents. As the only Asian American student in his new school, Evan contends with acts of overt racism and micro-aggression, including comments by his sixth grade teacher about his ability to fully participate in the community’s annual Civil War reenactment celebration. A well-drawn and engaging character, Evan challenges the status quo when he uncovers information about Chinese immigrants who fought in the Civil War. Secondary characters, including a white classmate who bullies Evan, are presented in a multi-dimensional way, imperfect but capable of positive change. With an optimistic tone, this warm-hearted book will appeal to fans of realistic fiction, particularly those who like some history added into the mix.
Jenny Andrus, Independent