This is my third year to teach this novel to eighth grade students at Holy Trinity Episcopal School in Fruitland Park, Florida.They have some knowledge of WW2 in Europe. This novel provides a perspective of the Pacific Islanders and how their lives were impacted by the Pearl Harbor attack on December 7, 1941.They become aware this was prior to Statehood for our 50th; the things the US Navy did during later days that December; and what the US Government did by arresting and imprisoning Japanese Americans in "camps" for an unspecified period upon arrest.I believe this novel has shown some of Our Kids that all sides of situations should be examined before a "rush to judgment" is made.During the study they learn about Hawai'i's discovery, the ruling monarchy of the early days, and something of their own heritage. Their own heritage curiosity is awakened by learning about this part of our national history.I recommend this as a good and interesting read for everyone.