Author Description

Meg has to learn how to navigate the Japanese culture as well as her own family, which seems easy enough, until the eve of WWII. Americans are no longer safe in Japan. Will they make it out? And if they do, will Japan let her father leave, too? Meg must face new challenges in Japan as she and her family are no longer welcome in the only place she's known as home. She finds freedom and a little magic on the long ship voyage to America and faces the culture shock of life in the U.S. while dealing with her father's absence. "Meg Goes to America is a thought-provoking novel that addresses the deeper conflicts of identity without compromising the wonders of childhood innocence. Meg is a Japanese-born American citizen who confronts her internal conflict between her personal beliefs and society's expectations. Her character provides a sense of comfort and optimism to those struggling with loneliness. Meg's story highlights the importance of self-worth and the desire to be heard. Katy Hammel weaves a captivating journey, depicting vivid imagery, heartwarming self-discovery, and bittersweet reality. This novel is a must-read for the youth of this generation." - Jessica Chong Gold Winner of the Douglas Preston Award for Published Fiction