84 pages 2 hours read

Linda Sue Park

Prairie Lotus

Fiction | Novel | Middle Grade | Published in 2020

A modern alternative to SparkNotes and CliffsNotes, SuperSummary offers high-quality Study Guides with detailed chapter summaries and analysis of major themes, characters, and more. For select classroom titles, we also provide Teaching Guides with discussion and quiz questions to prompt student engagement.

Before You Read

Roundup icon

Super Short Summary

In Linda Sue Park’s historical middle-grade novel Prairie Lotus, 14-year-old Hanna Edmunds settles in LaForge in the 1880 Dakota Territory with her white father, aiming to open a dress goods shop. Facing racism due to her Chinese heritage, Hanna strives to attend school and follow her dream of becoming a dressmaker despite the town's intolerance. The book includes racial language used during the 19th century.

Reviews & Readership

Roundup icon

Review Roundup

Linda Sue Park's Prairie Lotus is widely praised for its nuanced portrayal of racism and cultural identity in 1880s America. Readers appreciate the well-developed protagonist and historical accuracy. However, some find the pacing slow and wish for more action. Overall, it is a thoughtful, educational read for both young and adult audiences.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Prairie Lotus?

Readers who enjoy Prairie Lotus by Linda Sue Park are typically fans of historical fiction with strong, diverse characters. Similar to Little House on the Prairie but with a focus on Asian American experiences, it appeals to those who appreciate coming-of-age stories and themes of resilience and identity.

Recommended

Reading Age

9-12years

Book Details

Genre

Historical Fiction

Children's Literature

Topics

Race / Racism

Period

Colonialism / Postcolonialism

Themes

Relationships: Family

Relationships: Friendship

Life/Time: Coming of Age