Project Mulberry

In this contemporary novel, Newbery Medalist Linda Sue Park delivers a funny, lively story that illuminates both the process of writing a novel and the meaning of growing up American. The story follows Julia Song and her friend Patrick as they attempt to win a blue ribbon at the state fair by raising silkworms, a project suggested by Julia's mother based on her childhood in Korea. Despite obstacles such as sourcing mulberry leaves and fitting in with their club's traditional American projects, Julia and Patrick work well as a team. However, the author, Ms. Park, complicates Julia's life, adding depth to the challenges she faces in balancing her heritage with her American upbringing.