Tallgrass by Sandra Dallas

During World War II, many people of Japanese ancestry living on the west coast of the United States were relocated to internment camps. This is a historical novel based on this time in American history. The story involves a family and the rural town and community near this camp called Tallgrass. There are many prejudices and the Japanese are treated cruelly. The Stroud family does not agree with much of the areas prejudices and shows kindness to the Japanese employing several to work on their beet farm. Rennie Stroud, a thirteen year old girl, the main character of this book and told from her viewpoint, is confused by these changes in her life especially after a friend is murdered. Blame is placed on the Japanese: times are difficult. I enjoyed this book and the historical elements along with the humorous moments and mystery involved.