(3) K-3 Illustrated by Mika Song. When Ho'onani, who doesn't "see herself as a wahine, 'girl'...or kāne, 'boy,'" auditions to participate in the traditionally all-male hula chant, she not only wins a spot--she's named the group's leader. This story is inspired by a documentary about the ancient Hawaiian concept of a third gender "embracing both feminine and masculine traits." The illustrations' sun-bleached colors and minimal backgrounds focus on Ho'onani's self-assured presence and on the powerful chant's performance.

Reviewer: Kitty Flynn