Reviews

Meet Kaya: An American Girl by Janet Beeler Shaw

jessreads2pollo's review against another edition

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5.0

I've been rereading some classics from my childhood. Kirsten and Kaya were my favorite. I was surprised at home much accurate historical information was in this one. The fact that they had an advisory board really shows in Kay's story. Great history of the PNW and Tribes.

emilyanngul's review against another edition

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fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

tinyshinycello's review against another edition

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2.0

I do not remember a single thing about this story other than Kaya had an Appaloosa horse.

After re-reading now, I think this story had too many characters to keep track of, some that maybe could have been reduced into one singular character. I found the moral being pushed in the story (don't boast) isn't ultimately a factor in the climax and conclusion of the story either.

I really liked the illustrations showing what unfamiliar objects were though. That was a nice touch.

meganallenlib's review against another edition

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4.0

I’ve been going back and reading AG books since I work at the store and love to be full of fun facts for customers. Kaya’s book is full of beauty and intensity- the tribe whipwoman anybody?

marjoy18's review against another edition

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5.0

[Reading American Girl books I never read as a kid for the very first time 1/6]
I recently found the Kaya box set at my local used bookstore and knew I had to get it. This was phenomenal! I've always admired American Girl's commitment to historical accuracy, but their dedication truly shows in Kaya's books. The thorough research, incorporation of Nez Perce words, and clear reverence for the Nez Perce people's culture was wonderful to see in a story made so accessible to children. Although I would've loved to have read this when I was younger, I'm so glad I didn't miss out on Kaya's books entirely. They are criminally underrated!

maxthefish's review against another edition

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adventurous challenging emotional hopeful inspiring tense fast-paced

4.75

wintermote's review against another edition

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adventurous challenging lighthearted tense fast-paced
  • Plot- or character-driven? Character
  • Strong character development? Yes
  • Loveable characters? Yes
  • Diverse cast of characters? Yes
  • Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.0

Not my favorite American girl book but still very good. We learned a lot.

msmaisied's review against another edition

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4.0

The kids found this one to be interesting, but so far prefer the second one. I preferred Birchbark House over this one, I don't find the writing to be inspired, and sometimes just feels flat. The kids all agreed that Birchbark was better, but they still enjoyed this. Plus only four chapters make this not an intimidating book for young readers, even the five year old liked listening to it.

mrs_wheatfall's review against another edition

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3.0

Not written well - not as bad as Nancy Drew!!, BUT deals with relevant issues girls go through. I love the old fashioned notions of discipline and responsibility portrayed in this book. It's no Little House, but I recommend it.

secretarychaunnie's review against another edition

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3.0

On my journey to learn more about American history thru the honorable American Girls series (lol)

I had fun :3 Kaya was such a sweet girl I would have loved to see more of her journey but the book is too short to accommodate it