The Friendship Doll - Kirby Larson

This story follows Miss Kanagawa, a Japanese doll sent to America in the 1920s as a means of promoting peace and cultural understanding. Through early part of the 20th century Miss Kanagawa meets and deeply influences four different children. Miss Kanagawa travels from New York to Chicago to Kentucky to Oregon. I loved the historical details through out - the Chicago's World Fair, WPA Packhorse Librarians, the Dustbowl, etc. I also love the really delicate balance of sadness and sweetness that the author manages. All in all, just a delightful read!