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abigailbat's review
This is a sweet story about the love between a young girl and her grandma and a connection that stays strong, even as it changes when the little girl moves from Taipei to the United States with her parents. Wonderful reading to celebrate family bonds and to share experiences of new immigrants.
periparaparasakura's review
hopeful
inspiring
sad
fast-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? N/A
- Strong character development? N/A
- Loveable characters? N/A
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
- Flaws of characters a main focus? N/A
2.75
stillhouette's review
5.0
I don’t think I’ve ever felt more known by a book than this one. I bought this for my daughter, but it’s really for me. I related to it as a Taiwanese-American, who has lived in both countries. The longing for a person, a language, and a place brought tears to my eyes. What a gift!
erine's review
emotional
Speaks to the challenges of immigrating and getting used to a new home while still missing the beloved family left behind. The love that binds families together across those long distances is the central tenet of this story.
Lovely author and illustrator's note.
Note: main character, author, and illustrator all share Taiwanese heritage.
Lovely author and illustrator's note.
Note: main character, author, and illustrator all share Taiwanese heritage.
amageske's review
“I’m learning a new language,” I say. “And I miss your dumplings.”
asiqueira1307's review
5.0
I love this book. It is so heartfelt and beautiful.
The author and illustrator intertwine heart and culture, sadness and hope in a beautiful way.
I moved to the United States when I was an adult, but my daughter was just four years old. It was so hard for her too. Many kids can relate to this tale of love that can transcend oceans and languages.
The author and illustrator intertwine heart and culture, sadness and hope in a beautiful way.
I moved to the United States when I was an adult, but my daughter was just four years old. It was so hard for her too. Many kids can relate to this tale of love that can transcend oceans and languages.
mldavisreads's review
adventurous
emotional
reflective
4.0
Picture book. The unnamed narrator is a young girl who starts out living in Taiwan but eventually moves with her parents to San Diego, California. When she moves, she has to leave her beloved Popo (grandmother) behind. As the girl learns English and discovers American culture, she talks to Popo over video chat. Eventually she is able to return to Taiwan for a visit, where she is surprised to find that her words there don't come as easily now that she primarily speaks English. It is implied that is her last visit before her grandmother passes away, and she resolves to continue seeing her in her dreams.
It is clear that this book has a personal connection for both the author and the illustrator, as well as several other reviewers. While it can be used when discussing immigration or family relationships, it can also tie into Lunar New Year. A sweet story about the special bond between a grandmother and a granddaughter, and a call to hold dear the language and traditions that tie us to past generations. Back matter includes letters and photos from the author and illustrator as well as a glossary with pronunciation guide.
It is clear that this book has a personal connection for both the author and the illustrator, as well as several other reviewers. While it can be used when discussing immigration or family relationships, it can also tie into Lunar New Year. A sweet story about the special bond between a grandmother and a granddaughter, and a call to hold dear the language and traditions that tie us to past generations. Back matter includes letters and photos from the author and illustrator as well as a glossary with pronunciation guide.
erinsbookshelves's review
emotional
hopeful
reflective
medium-paced
- Plot- or character-driven? A mix
- Loveable characters? Yes
- Diverse cast of characters? Yes
4.0