A Different Pond
Written by Bao Phi
Illustrated by Thi Bui
A Different Pond tells a story of how a simple early morning fishing trip can be filled with moments of honesty and growth. The young boy and his father awake early to go fishing for food, not recreation. Bao Phi’s words and Thi Bui’ illustrations take us on a journey filled with moments of encouragement, joy, pride, sadness, grief and wonder between the young boy and his father. Bao gives us a glimpse into a relationship between father and son and cultures, old and new. There are nods to Bao’s hometown of Minneapolis throughout the book and one can assume the story takes place in Minneapolis. Graphic novelist Thi Bui’s striking illustrations allow readers to feel as though they are right with the characters.
I would recommend this book for all ages. I think readers who enjoy graphic novels will interested and captivated by the illustrations. My students, especially those who are immigrants or refugees, had strong connections to the story. When we were learning about the author my students grew very excited to learn Bao Phi and his family are refugees from Vietnam who came to Minnesota. Again, many connections and conversations were had as a result of this knowledge!
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