Japan, 1853: When Commodore Matthew Perry and his ships arrive in Edo Bay, Yoshi wishes he were able to be a samurai, so he could fight "the barbarians from the West." Author's note. Glossary. Selected bibliography. Black-and-white period illustrations and photographs.
Topics Adventure and adventurers. Japan. Americans in Japan. Friendship. Seafaring life. Samurai. Manjiro Nakahama (1827-1898). Matthew Calbraith Perry (1794-1858). History of Japan, Restoration, 1853-1870.
SRC Level 5.400000
SRC Points 14.000000
Lexile 820L
Trim Size 5 1/2" x 8 1/4"
JLG Span Fall
Language English
Rights type Print
Publication date 2015-09-14
JLG Release Date Jan 2016
Minimum grade 5
Maximum grade 7
Reading level Elementary, Middle
Format Print
Middle Grade Fiction Plus (Grades 5-7)
Middle Grade Fiction Plus
Middle Grade Fiction Plus (Grades 5-7)
For Grades 5-7
This collection features fiction titles selected for upper elementary and early middle school readers who are ready for engaging, well-crafted stories that reflect their everyday lives and interests. Selections span contemporary and realistic fiction, as well as approachable genre titles, offering accessible narratives with emotional depth, humor, and heart—designed to encourage independent reading and sustained engagement.