In the landscape of American literature and historical nonfiction, few books offer the emotional power and educational impact of Farewell to Manzanar. This compelling memoir by Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston and James D. Houston captures the lived experiences of Japanese Americans during World War II—a part of U.S. history that is too often overlooked.
At Teacher’s Pet Publications, we offer Farewell to Manzanar in both individual and classroom set editions, along with ready-to-use teaching materials designed to enhance understanding, promote empathy, and encourage critical thinking among students. Whether you’re an educator building a diverse curriculum, a homeschooling parent, or a librarian curating impactful stories, this is a book you’ll want in your collection.
? About the Book: A Memoir of Internment and Identity
Farewell to Manzanar is a memoir that recounts the true story of Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston, who was only seven years old when her family was forcibly relocated to the Manzanar internment camp during World War II. This deeply moving narrative chronicles her family's struggle with the harsh realities of internment, cultural dislocation, and the aftermath of war.
The book covers vital themes including:
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Racial discrimination and civil liberties
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Identity, culture, and belonging
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The trauma of incarceration
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Resilience and family bonds
Published in 1973, Farewell to Manzanar remains a critical resource for understanding Japanese American history and the broader implications of civil rights in the United States.
? Why Educators Choose Farewell to Manzanar
At Teacher’s Pet Publications, we understand what makes a book not just good, but great for the classroom. Farewell to Manzanar is more than a personal story—it’s a powerful teaching tool that opens doors to essential conversations around history, justice, and humanity.
Here’s why educators love teaching this memoir:
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Rich Historical Context
The book serves as a firsthand account of a dark period in American history, helping students connect emotionally to factual content. -
Age-Appropriate Complexity
Written in a straightforward and reflective tone, the book is accessible for middle and high school readers while still offering plenty of depth for discussion. -
Promotes Critical Thinking
The themes invite students to question systems of power, cultural prejudice, and how history is remembered or erased. -
Aligned with Standards
Farewell to Manzanar aligns with Common Core standards and is included in many state-recommended reading lists for grades 7–12.
? What You Get from Teacher’s Pet Publications
When you purchase Farewell to Manzanar through Teacher’s Pet Publications, you’re investing in more than just a book—you’re getting a complete educational package developed by experienced educators.
✅ The Book:
We provide high-quality, durable copies of Farewell to Manzanar suitable for classroom or independent study use.
✅ Comprehensive Teaching Guides:
Our exclusive teaching resources include:
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Chapter summaries and comprehension questions
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Vocabulary lists and activities
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Writing prompts and critical thinking exercises
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Quizzes and test questions
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Essay and project assignments
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Discussion topics and group activities
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Answer keys and rubrics for easy grading
These guides are specifically created to help educators save time while delivering meaningful, engaging lessons that meet academic standards.
? Topics Covered in Our Lesson Plans
Our curriculum guides and teaching tools focus on the following learning goals:
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Understanding historical context of Japanese internment
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Analyzing literary elements such as tone, symbolism, and point of view
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Exploring cultural identity, assimilation, and the immigrant experience
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Drawing comparisons between historical events and current issues
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Developing empathy through literature
?? Ideal for a Variety of Learning Environments
Whether you’re teaching in a traditional classroom, hybrid learning model, or homeschool setting, Farewell to Manzanar fits seamlessly into your lesson plans. It's especially suitable for:
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Middle School (Grades 7–8)
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High School (Grades 9–12)
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U.S. History, Social Studies, or Literature courses
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Thematic units on civil rights, immigration, or identity
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ESL and ELL classrooms due to its accessible language
? Classroom Sets & Bulk Discounts
Need multiple copies for your entire class or school? Teacher’s Pet Publications offers discounted classroom sets and bulk pricing to make quality education more affordable.
Our team can customize packages based on your school’s needs and even help match supplemental resources for other core texts in your curriculum.
? Order Farewell to Manzanar Today
Bringing Farewell to Manzanar into your classroom not only enriches your literature program but also provides your students with a voice they may not have encountered otherwise. Let your students walk alongside Jeanne as she navigates a world filled with injustice, confusion, and hope.
? Click here to order Farewell to Manzanar from Teacher’s Pet Publications
? Why This Book Matters More Than Ever
In an era when conversations about racial justice, civil rights, and national identity dominate headlines, Farewell to Manzanar is as relevant today as it was when it was first published. It encourages students to:
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Reflect on the consequences of government policy
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Consider what it means to be “American”
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Connect past injustices to current events like immigration debates or racial profiling
This memoir gives students the tools to understand history, build empathy, and become thoughtful citizens.
✍️ What Teachers Are Saying
"Teacher’s Pet Publications provided all the materials I needed to guide meaningful classroom conversations around this book. My students were moved and inspired."
— Ms. Torres, 8th Grade Language Arts, California
"This is one of the best resources I’ve used for teaching memoirs and historical narratives. The worksheets and essay questions helped my students connect deeply to the story."
— Mr. Daniel, High School Literature Instructor, Illinois
? Expand the Learning Experience
Pair Farewell to Manzanar with:
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Night by Elie Wiesel (themes of internment and survival)
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Of Mice and Men by John Steinbeck (American identity and injustice)
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U.S. history lessons on WWII, Executive Order 9066, and the Civil Liberties Act of 1988
Encourage students to explore oral histories, primary source documents, and family interviews to make the learning experience more personal and memorable.
? Complete Your Curriculum with Teacher’s Pet Publications
We’re more than just a book distributor—we’re your partner in delivering impactful education. Our curated selection of literary classics and comprehensive teaching guides are trusted by thousands of schools, educators, and homeschoolers across the nation.
✅ Ready to Order?
Don’t wait to enrich your curriculum with this unforgettable memoir. Equip your classroom with Farewell to Manzanar and unlock the power of personal narrative, historical understanding, and cultural empathy.
? Click here to shop now at Teacher’s Pet Publications
? Questions? Contact our support team for custom classroom bundles or recommendations.