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Heart of a Samurai

By Margi Preus
Level 6
Review:

Heart of a Samurai is a captivating, skillfully written, and inspiring book based on the true story of Manjiro, a 14-year-old boy who is aboard a fishing vessel that sinks. After finding refuge on a remote island, Manjiro and his fellow Japanese friends are rescued from their desperate situation. However, the rescue is not what is expected and completely alters Manjiro’s life. This book explores the themes of family, friendship, courage, endurance, and overcoming prejudices.

(Reviewed by Jenny Phillips)

Region Asia, Japan
Genre Biography, Fiction
Digital Format Audiobook, E-book
The Good and the Beautiful Library No
  • Audiobook
  • E-Book
  • Top Picks
  • 4 Entertainment Value
  • 4 Moral Value
  • 5 Educational Value
  • 5 Literary Value
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Entertainment Value

All books on our list are chosen to be engaging, but books that rank high in entertainment value may be more appealing to reluctant readers and/or those who are new to good and beautiful books.

Moral Value

All books on The Good and the Beautiful Book List are deemed appropriate and wholesome, but some books have more emphasis on moral principles than others. A lower rating for moral value does not mean the book is inappropriate; it only means that moral values are not as highly emphasized.

Educational Value

Although all books on this list have educational value in the sense of increasing vocabulary and other important skills, the educational value scale is based on how well the book helps the reader gain knowledge about historical time periods, cultures, geography, science, etc.

Literary Value

Books that score high in literary value include exceptional writing, use of literary devices, and a rich vocabulary. All books on The Good and the Beautiful Book List are well-written, but some have a higher literary value than others.

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