Behind the Book: Smiling Eyes by Linda Sue Park
“This book was partly inspired by Black creators who have set about reclaiming the trope of Black hair. For far too long, young readers have lacked books containing images to counter the often negative stereotypes of Asian eyes. I hope this book will become a playful and meaningful part of our cultural conversations around inclusion!” - Linda Sue Park
For an enthusiastic little boy, an ordinary day is filled with the joys and surprises of seeing and being seen. All around him, people are using their eyes: big eyes, small eyes, eyes that are open wide, or shut tight, or even winking! With irresistible rhymes and warm, inviting art, this ode to eyes by Linda Sue Park and Lenny Wen will delight the youngest of readers.
About the Author
Linda Sue Park, Newbery Medal winner for A Single Shard and #1 New York Times bestseller for A Long Walk to Water, is the renowned author of picture books and novels for young readers. She lives in Western New York. Learn more at lindasuepark.com.
About the Illustrator
Lenny Wen is the illustrator of several picture books, including her own Wolfgang in the Meadow and Spicy Spicy Hot! Lenny was born and raised in Indonesia and currently lives in the Austrian countryside, surrounded by nature and a castle. You can visit her at lennywen.com.