Three photographers. Three perspectives. And through the lenses of their cameras, three different views of one bitter chapter of American history.

“Ingeniously designed, Seen and Unseen strikes an ideal balance.” —The New York Times

★ “Powerful visuals . . . accompanied by clear, straightforward text, this arresting work brings history to vivid life. [A] compelling read.” —Kirkus Reviews, starred review

★ “While author Partridge deftly exposes the injustices, illustrator Tamaki enhances the text with superbly resonating, gorgeously empathic illustrations.” —Booklist, starred review

★ “Extended back matter, including an essay on the model minority myth, concludes this crucial, perspective-interested work.” —Publishers Weekly, starred review  

★ “[An] exquisitely crafted, fiercely provocative work of nonfiction.” —The Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books, starred review

★ “Coupled with Partridge’s simple, perfect writing and back matter that deepens the text, this is a work that will haunt readers.” —School Library Journal, starred review 

As a writer, I am drawn to courage: the courage to create, to endure, to thrive and to change the world. - Elizabeth Partridge

Walking into my writing room, the first thing I see is this 1942 Dorothea Lange photograph of Torazo Sakawye and his grandson, Walter Yoshiharu Sakawye. The family was imprisoned at Manzanar Relocation Camp during WWII. For years, I felt the grandfather’s eyes were asking me, “When will you tell our story?” Several years ago it was finally time, and I began work on my book, Seen and Unseen.

Learn More