I bought this book for my 8 year old grand daughter. I generally read books before I give them to the kids. I've read other books by Kogawa and always thoroughly enjoy them. This book is no exception but: I'm not sure the loss of her mother, father, grandparents, doll, friends, etc isn't a little heavy for an eight year old. My gr.daughter reads/comprehends above her age level but I think it's a little heavy for her yet. Probably by age 10 or 11 children have a better emotional grasp for themselves and of the world.
Excellent story, wonderfully well written. Even teens and adults would enjoy this well sensitive, emotional book.
Coleen from Kent, Wa