Summary
Mei is a Chinese American girl who is teased for being different and Asian at school. The story is a love letter from Mei’s parents explaining her name and how her differences make her special and powerful. She is taught and reminded by her parents that being different is a source of great beauty and power. Additionally, they show Mei many ways in which she is connected to her family, ancestors, and culture.
Theme(s):
Family, Self-Love, Individuality, Acceptance
Personal Response
This book was written so beautifully teaching us to love ourselves for who we are and where we come from. The story being written as a love letter from Mei’s parents to her was enlightening and stood out to me the second I opened the book. I love how they connected their culture using Asian descriptions and metaphors to show her how she is special. The illustrations in this book were so colorful and pleasing to look at that made the story stick out to me more. It made me appreciate my family.
Teaching Ideas
This story would make a great read aloud and followed by an activity connecting each of the student’s family history. I could have the parents come in and work on a family tree activity. The students are able to learn more about their ancestry from their parents and explore their heritage! They will learn to accept where their ancestors have came from and what makes them unique. They will learn to love themselves more and appreciate their culture.
Recommended Reading Level
Grade 01, Grade 02
