Heart of a Samurai facts for kids
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| Author | Margi Preus |
|---|---|
| Illustrator | Manjiro Nakahama, Jillian Tamaki |
| Cover artist | Jillian Tamaki |
| Country | United States |
| Language | English |
| Genre | Historical novel |
| Published | Amulet Books |
| Media type | |
| Pages | 282 pp |
| Awards | Newbery Honor Book |
| ISBN | 978-1-4197-0200-6 |
Heart of a Samurai is an exciting historical novel written in 2010 by American author Margi Preus. It tells the true story of a brave Japanese boy named Manjiro Nakahama (1827–1898). The book even includes some of Manjiro's own drawings! The cover art was created by Jillian Tamaki. This book has won many awards, including being recognized as a Newbery Medal Honor Book in 2011.
Contents
The Story of Heart of a Samurai
Heart of a Samurai is based on the real-life adventures of Manjiro Nakahama. He is thought to be one of the first Japanese people to ever visit America.
Manjiro's Journey Begins
In 1841, Manjiro was a 14-year-old fisherman. He lived in a small, poor village in Japan. His biggest dream was to become a Samurai, a special warrior title usually passed down through families. One day, while fishing, his ship was caught in a terrible storm. It drifted far out to sea until it landed on a small, unknown island. Manjiro and his crew called it "Bird Island."
Rescue and a New World
After several months on the island, Manjiro and his friends were rescued. They were found by Captain Whitfield, who was on an American whaling ship called the John Howland. Manjiro quickly started working with the whaling team. Captain Whitfield was very impressed by him.
When they reached Hawaii, Captain Whitfield decided he wanted to adopt Manjiro. He wanted to take Manjiro back to America with him. At this time, Japan had closed itself off from the rest of the world. Japanese people were taught that foreigners were dangerous. But Manjiro was brave and curious. He decided to leave his crewmates and explore this new world.
Life in America
When Manjiro arrived in America, most people he met were kind to him. However, some people treated him badly because he was a foreigner. Manjiro worked hard at school. He also helped take care of his new family while Captain Whitfield was away at sea.
Returning Home and Making a Difference
After a few years, Manjiro got a chance to go back to Japan. He quickly took it! But when he returned, he was put in prison. The Japanese government thought he might be a spy because he had been in a foreign country. Japan had been isolated from the world for over 200 years.
Later, a new emperor came to power. This emperor was impressed by Manjiro's knowledge of the world and the English language. He made Manjiro a teacher for his own children. Manjiro taught English, math, how to navigate ships, and even how to build them. He also translated English books into Japanese.
Manjiro helped start the whaling industry in Japan. He also became an interpreter for the first Japanese Embassy. His influence helped Japan end its isolation in 1854. Manjiro, who was born a fisherman, was given the rare and special title of Samurai. This was a huge honor!
Main Characters
- Nakahama, Manjiro (also known as John Mung) – Manjiro is a humble and innocent boy. His curiosity and open mind lead him on a ten-year adventure in America. His eagerness to learn helps him achieve his dream of becoming a Samurai.
- Denzo, Goemon, Jusuke, and Toraemon – These are Manjiro's crew members from the shipwrecked Japanese fishing boat.
- Captain Whitfield – He is the captain of the John Howland, a whaling ship. He is a kind and honorable person. He helps Manjiro get an education and learn skills to support himself.
- Jolly – Jolly was a harpooner on the John Howland. Captain Whitfield fired him because he was dishonest. Jolly was unkind to Manjiro.
- Tom – Tom is Manjiro's classmate at the Bedford School of Navigation. He was mean to Manjiro when they first met. Tom tried to turn other students against Manjiro.
- Job – Job becomes Manjiro's friend. He realizes Tom is being rude to Manjiro. Job is fun and helps Manjiro name his horse.
- Terry – Terry is a great friend to Manjiro and often joins him on his adventures.
Awards and Honors
Heart of a Samurai has received many special awards:
- Newbery Medal Honor Book in 2011
- The Best Children's Books of the Year for Historical Fiction (ages 12–14) by Bank Street College in 2011
- Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature for Children's Literature by Asian/Pacific American Librarians Association in 2010-2011
- Noteworthy Titles for Children and Teens (ages 10–14) by Capitol Choices in 2011
- Top Ten Books by Shelf Awareness in 2010
- Children's Books of 2010 for Older Readers by New York Public Library
- Best Books for Children and Teens for Fiction with Great Boy Characters under Historical Fiction category by Kirkus Reviews in 2010
- Best Children's Books of 2010 for Fiction by Publishers Weekly
- Autumn 2010 for the Teen Readers by the IndieBound Kids' Next list
- 2011 Notable Children's Book for Older Readers by American Library Association
- Maud Hart Lovelace Book Award, Division II (Grades 6-8): nominee, 2014–15
About the Author
Margi Preus is an American writer. She is known for her children's books and plays. She also writes funny plays, adaptations of stories, and short fiction.
How the Story Was Discovered
Margi Preus found out about Manjiro's true story while doing research. She was at a library in Japan for another book she was writing called The Peace Bell. She was fascinated by Manjiro's courage. He was a poor teenage fisherman who faced many challenges. He went on a ten-year journey to America. In the end, he was given the amazing and rare title of Samurai. Manjiro is believed to be the first Japanese person to ever step foot in America. This book shows how peace and friendship can grow between different countries.
Other Books by Margi Preus
Margi Preus has written several other books for young readers:
- West of the Moon (2014) for ages 9–12
- Shadow on the Mountain (2012)
- Celebritrees: Historic & Famous Trees of the World (2011) for ages 4–8
- The Peace Bell (2008) for ages 4–8
She also wrote Visions in Near-Sleep in 1983. She co-authored Legend of the Lady Slipper (1999) with Lise Lunge Larsen. She also worked with Ann Treacy on Sacred Words: A Collection of Prayers from Around the World (2001) and A Book of Grace (2002).
