This was set in 1885, but you must have some suspension of disbelief. Mei’s multiracial community is a bit of an outlier, where everyone mostly gets along, until microaggressions which later turns to racism ruins things. Mei tries to cope with things by imagining an all-powerful “Auntie Po” as a deity who protects her community and lifts the kids’ spirits.

Also, Mei and her friendship to Bee was so wholesome. It is hinted Mei may be gay or at least has a crush on Bee, and I thought that was portrayed very well. 

Overall, this was really engaging and, even emotional at some points. 

The author's note turned me off.  It dampened my enjoyment slightly.

the author acknowledges how integral Native Americans/the various indigenous nations in the US were integral to the logging industry, but chose not to include them. I agree I don't think the author should've tried to write from the perspective of a native person in that time, but it feels like a missed opportunity not to include at least a reference or acknowledgement in story. As simple as "There used to be a log mill operated by people of __ nation. But they were ran off/killed/fired/replaced/etc.

and with the claim Black people/African -Americans were complicit in taking indigenous land. Ho, the enslaved and descendants of the enslaved did not asked to come here. that is not the same. redirect that to the slave masters who brought them to stolen land. kay, bye