Dragonwings

This powerful story, presented here as a 51-page play script, follows Moon Shadow Lee, a young boy who travels from rural China to San Francisco in 1903 to reunite with his father, Windrider. Moon Shadow must adapt to a completely new culture, language, and way of life in Chinatown, encountering both the wonders and the prejudices of America. The narrative beautifully explores the deep bond between father and son as they pursue Windrider's ambitious dream of building and flying an airplane, a dream inspired by ancient dragon lore. Their journey is set against the backdrop of significant historical events, including the devastating 1906 San Francisco earthquake, and highlights the resilience and community spirit of Chinese immigrants. This Newbery Honor book offers a rich, poignant look at immigration, cultural identity, and the pursuit of impossible dreams.

A young boy travels from rural China to San Francisco in 1903 to join his father who lives and works in Chinatown. Everything about America is strange to him- the language, the clothes, the houses, the food, the customs, and the calendar. He learns to adapt, makes new friends, and experiences the great San Francisco earthquake of 1906. Throughout the book he and his fellow Chinese share many folktales and customs from their home country.