Shino Arihara

In his Cambodian village, Arn’s home was filled with music and laughter. But when the Khmer Rouge arrived, Arn’s world was turned upside down and he never saw his family again. Arn worked in a labor camp for children for four long years, where he was chosen to play the khim, a traditional wooden stringed instrument. Today, Arn is recognized around the world for his efforts to bring healing to Cambodia and his commitment to preserving the Cambodian songs and instruments that saved his life.

Ava is exploring her neighborhood from top to bottom and A to Z! Whether it’s “C” for the Chino-Latino corner store or “V” for the vegetable plot that used to be a vacant lot, young city dwellers will see their neighborhood through a new set of eyes after joining Ava on her journey. Based on the author’s memories of growing up within the Puerto Rican community in Philadelphia, the story is told in rhyme with Spanish words sprinkled throughout the text. Detailed paintings bring the neighborhood as seen through a child’s eyes to life. Spanish version available.