Shining a Light

Ages 8 to 12, Grades 3 to 7

A collective biography of forty influential Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders, from Kalpana Chawla to Dwayne “the Rock” Johnson to Tammy Duckworth, whose historical contributions readers may not know but whose light shines on, with stunning illustrated portraits by Hugo Award nominee Victo Ngai

Meet forty people who helped change the world in countless ways in this beautifully illustrated collective biography.From scientists to sports stars, aerospace engineers to artists, every person shines in this collection. Dynamic portraits for each person showcase bold colors and clever, precise details. Each biography celebrates the determination and courage of people who were on the forefront of changing society.Using their specific talents, each individual fought for the space for people of Asian and Pacific Islander descent to be seen and treated with dignity and respect. Their important legacies live on today.

About the Author

Veeda Bybee is a former journalist who holds an MFA from the Vermont College of Fine Arts. She is a contributor to the YA anthology Rural Voices and MG anthology Calling the Moon. She has also written historical fiction chapter books Lily and the Great Quake and, in partnership with the Smithsonian, Li on Angel Island. Veeda is the daughter of Asian immigrants and lives in Nevada with her family.