Sylvia And Aki by Winifred Conkling has been praised for its poignant portrayal of friendship and historical contexts of racial injustice. The narrative effectively combines elements of courage and resilience, although some readers found the pacing uneven. Overall, the book is lauded for its educational value and emotional depth.

Readers who enjoyed The Watsons Go to Birmingham—1963 by Christopher Paul Curtis or Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan will appreciate Sylvia And Aki. This historical novel appeals to those interested in stories about friendship, social justice, and overcoming racial discrimination, particularly in the context of 1940s America.

Sylvia & Aki by Winifred Conkling is a children’s historical fiction novel depicting the true stories of Sylvia Mendez and Aki Munemitsu. During World War II, Aki and her family, being Japanese American, were forcibly relocated to an incarceration camp in Poston, Arizona. Concurrently, Sylvia, a Latina girl whose family rented the Munemitsu farm, faced racial discrimination and was barred from attending the local white school. Sylvia’s father, Gonzalo Mendez, fought this injustice, culminating in the landmark desegregation case Mendez v. Westminster. Sylvia and Aki’s stories intersect, highlighting their struggles and the enduring friendship formed amid adversity.

Inspirational / Informative / Emotional / Hopeful

- Sylvia & Aki won the Jane Addams Children's Book Award in 2012, which honors children's books that promote peace, social justice, and equality.
- Winifred Conkling, author of Sylvia & Aki, often focuses on historical narratives in her work, bringing attention to lesser-known stories and events in American history.
- The true story behind Sylvia & Aki highlights a landmark civil rights case, reflecting Conkling's dedication to uncovering and amplifying important historical moments.

**Sylvia Mendez**  
A young girl proud of her Mexican/Puerto Rican American heritage, who becomes aware of discrimination and strives for a quality education while forming a meaningful connection with Aki.

**Gonzalo Mendez, Sr.**  
Sylvia’s father, a naturalized US citizen from Mexico, who dreams of running a farm and is driven by a strong sense of justice and desire for educational opportunities for his children.

**Aki(ko) Munemitsu**  
A third-grader affected by wartime racism, who values family bonds and focuses on the concept of home while forming a friendship with Sylvia through a shared connection.

**Seiko Lincoln “Tad” Munemitsu**  
Aki’s older brother, who takes on adult responsibilities in the family due to restrictive laws and plays a key role in supporting his family during challenging times.

Winifred Conkling

Middle grade

Novel

Fiction

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Part 1: “California and Arizona 1941”

Part 1 Sylvia And Aki Part 1 Summary & Analysis

Part 2: “California and Arizona 1944-1945”

Part 2-Epilogue

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