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Worthy: The Brave and Capable Life of Joseph Pierce
Hardcover
BiographyGeneral Juvenile NonfictionHistory
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Publisher: Bound to Stay Bound Books
Published: Aug 26 2025
Pages: 57
Language: English
Discover the incredible true story of Joseph Pierce, a lesser-known yet pivotal figure of the Civil War, in this inspiring picture book biography.
Born in Canton, China, Joseph Pierce's journey began when he was traded for six silver coins as a child. He embarked on a months-long voyage to Connecticut, where he was raised by a ship captain and his family in the 1850s. Despite facing discrimination and racism, Joseph was determined to prove his worth. He enlisted in the Union Army, fighting bravely in key battles such as Gettysburg, Antietam, and Appomattox, and ultimately became an American citizen and a true American hero.
Award-winning author Andrea Wang's meticulous research, combined with Youa Vang's stunning and cinematic illustrations, illuminates Pierce's life as an inspirational testament to the enduring struggle for human dignity and worth. This powerful story weaves together history, representation, and resilience, offering a unique perspective on the Civil War and the challenges faced by Chinese Americans in the 19th century.
Reasons to pick up Worthy:
- Award-winning author: Andrea Wang, author of Watercress, a Caldecott Medal and Newbery Honor recipient.
- Introducing a new illustrator: Youa Vang creates evocative artwork with the meticulous detail of an oil painter.
- Hidden history: A thoughtfully researched and beautifully told story of Joe Pierce, the only Chinese soldier in the 14th Regiment of the Connecticut Volunteer Infantry.
- Triumph over discrimination: A real-life hero who overcame anti-Chinese prejudice to become an American war veteran and citizen.
Perfect for AAPI Heritage Month or Hidden History displays, Worthy is a valuable addition to any collection for readers interested in the Civil War, lesser-known Asian-American luminaries, and stories of courage and integrity.
Praise for Worthy:
A thought-provoking account of courage and integrity in the face of discrimination. -- Kirkus Reviews
★ Wang's well-researched writing, including a timeline and supporting resources, and Vang's evocative illustrations illuminate Pierce's life as an inspirational testament to the enduring struggle for human dignity and worth. -- Booklist (starred review)
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