Summary
How We Say I Love You is a heartwarming book told from the perspective of an Asian American girl, Hana. In the story Hana shares about her family and how they show their love by what they do for one another. Mom stirs love into a steaming pot of xifan. Dad cheers at Hana’s soccer game. Hana says good night by rubbing grandma’s feet and pouring grandpa his tea. Hana teaches that saying “I love you” can come from more than just words.
Theme(s):
Family, Love, Relationships
Personal Response
This book was a sweet, tender way of showing love within a family. I love how there was a glossary in the back showing Mandarin Chinese to English and Taiwanese Hokkien to English. I do wish there was a pronunciation guide so when I read it to my students, I know I am saying the words correctly. I also liked how this book showed an intergenerational family and how family make-up can differ based on culture. This book also has a heart hidden on every page which can be engaging for kids to find.
Teaching Ideas
This story could be an introduction to family and traditions within a social studies curriculum, especially with younger grade levels. It can also be used to talk about different cultures or different family make-ups since Hana’s grandparents live with her. There could even be a take-home activity in which students brainstorm with their families the ways they show love within their home. Then students could come back and share with the class and compare and contrast their actions with Hana’s.
Recommended Reading Level
Birth-PreK, Grade 01, Grade 02
