Books by Cynthia Kadohata

Cynthia Kadohata writes middle grade and young adult for ages 8–17, exploring themes of love & family, resilience & perseverance, friendship & social.

Standalone Books (Ages 12–18)

Kira-Kira

Cynthia Kadohata

For families navigating big changes like a move, this poignant story beautifully explores sisterhood, cultural identity,

Ages 9–14

Cracker! The Best Dog in Vietnam

Cynthia Kadohata

Cracker, a German shepherd bomb-sniffer, and her handler, Rick, navigate the perilous Vietnam War. Their survival depend

Ages 9–13

Weedflower

Cynthia Kadohata

For a child grappling with unfair circumstances or a sudden move, this poignant story explores resilience, friendship, a

Ages 9–13

Outside Beauty

Cynthia Kadohata

For families navigating the difficult journey of a loved one's serious illness, this poignant novel explores sisterhood,

Ages 13–17

A Million Shades of Gray

Cynthia Kadohata

In 1975 Vietnam, a young boy and his cherished elephant flee into the jungle to survive a village attack. Their journey

Ages 8–12

By Age Range

Ages 8–11

4 books

Ages 12–18

5 books

If Your Family Loves Cynthia Kadohata, Also Try

Kate DiCamillo

Louisiana's Way Home

Anna Myers

Red-dirt Jessie

Janet Bode

New Kids in Town Oral Histories of Immigrant Teens

Rachel DeWoskin

Blind

Helen Peters

A Donkey Called Mistletoe