Common Sense Media Review
By Amanda Nojadera
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Girl beats stereotypes in powerful free-verse novel.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 9+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
Set in 1969, FULL CICADA MOON tells the story of 12-year-old Mimi Yoshiko Oliver, a half-African American, half-Japanese aspiring astronaut whose family moves from Berkeley, California, to a predominately white small town in Vermont. Judged by the community because of her skin color and teased by her classmates because of her interest in science competitions and shop class, Mimi never loses sight of her dreams no matter how many times others try to discourage her. In a world that's constantly trying to tell her whom she should be, Mimi's refusal to conform not only helps her overcome racial and gender stereotypes but also lets others know how she wants to be defined.
Is It Any Good?
Marilyn Hilton's thought-provoking free-verse novel is an inspiring coming-of-age story for middle schoolers. She delicately weaves American history into the story, and the deliberate placement of words on the page beautifully captures Mimi's emotions and her view of the world. Being the new kid is always difficult -- especially when you're judged by your race and gender -- but Mimi learns to respectfully push the boundaries by uniting her classmates through an act of civil disobedience. Her courage and determination can empower kids, especially girls, to embrace the sciences and their own dreams.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the difference between our era and the 1960s. How does Full Cicada Moon mirror what's happening in the world today?
Why do you think the author chose to write this story in free-verse poetry? Was it easier or harder for you read in this form? How would the book have been different if it had been written in prose?
Check out these websites, apps, games, books, and TV shows to spark kids' interest in STEM topics and careers.
Book Details
- Author :
- Genre : Poetry
- Topics : STEM , History
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Dial Books
- Publication date : September 8, 2015
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 8 - 12
- Number of pages : 400
- Available on : Nook, Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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