"Kira Kira: A Novel" is a children's book written by Cynthia Kadohata that tells the story of a Japanese American family living in the 1950s. The narrative follows Katie Takeshima, a young girl who navigates the challenges of her family's life in Georgia while dealing with her sister Lynn, who is her inspiration and best friend. The novel explores themes of family, resilience, and the pursuit of dreams. As Katie learns about the world around her, she discovers the importance of hope and the beauty of life, symbolized by the Japanese word "kira kira," which means "shiny" or "glittering."