Akemi’s Song

By Joanne Kwok
Illustrated by Yiting Hui

In the Alishan forest of Taiwan, flamecrest birds sing their personal songs of love, home, memory, and hope. This year, Akemi, a young flamecrest bird, has been selected to sing her special song on the Lunar New Year. But Akemi is unable to create her song. Encouraged by her mother, Akemi sets off on a journey to learn more about herself. She travels through Taiwan’s beautiful landscape, from towering mountain peaks to narrow gorges and mirrored lakes. With each adventure, she discovers that her inner strength is reflected in the beauty of the natural environment, and she  finally has her song … one of confidence in herself, love for community, and appreciation for the beautiful world in which she lives.