We Are Gems

We Are Gems helps readers to critically question microaggressions against Asian Americans through self-love and solidarity with Black and Indigenous-led movements for justice and healing. It is a joyous celebration of Asian Americans and our history.

We believe that learning & living out racial justice starts at home, including on our bookshelves. That is why we wrote and illustratrated We Are Gems (ages 8+). Check out our website for a free Common Core-aligned discussion guide: https: //www.justwordsjustdeeds.com/

Christine Yoon, illustrator
As both an artist and an emergency room physician, Christine creates illustrations and paintings to heal herself and others. She identifies as Korean American.
 
Andrew Hem, illustrator
Andrew first developed his artistry in Los Angeles through street art. His collections are now enjoyed around the globe. He identifies as Cambodian American.
 
Ko Kim, author
A former public school teacher, Ko writes books to help Asian American children feel seen and loved. She holds a Masters of Arts in Education from Stanford and a BA in political science with a minor in Asian American studies from UCLA. Ko identifies as Korean American.