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I am an attorney, turned stay-at-home mom, turned writer. I am a first generation Chinese-American citizen and I live in Miami Beach with my husband and son, Brandon, who is the inspiration for my stories. When Brandon was very little, I couldn’t find children’s storybooks to read to him which touched upon Chinese culture and which included some Chinese (Mandarin) words to teach and/or reinforce his Chinese vocabulary, so I started writing my own. This is the first “Brandon” story.
Reviewed by Bruce Arrington for Readers' Favorite
Brandon Makes Jiǎo Zi (餃子) by Eugenia Chu is an illustrated children’s story that mixes American and Chinese cultures, bringing not only traditions together, but also the two languages. Brandon’s parents live in the United States, but the boy’s grandmother lives in China, and she comes for a visit. What follows is a series of high energy experiences focused on Brandon's favorite Chinese food and his grandmother. The book includes a preface describing how to pronounce Chinese syllables and a glossary of Chinese words and numbers.
The book is filled with humor, fun, and simple child-like drawings. You can feel Brandon’s energy as he prepares (or so attempts) his favorite dish with his grandmother, but more importantly bonding with a family member who has come from far away. I appreciate how this story is based in the reality of the author, Eugenia Chu, and how her life experience is shared in this book. Family is paramount, and something as simple as preparing food together can make positive memories that could last the lifetime of Brandon. Sharing these experiences allows the reader to appreciate the values of this happy family.
Brandon Makes Jiǎo Zi not only helps two cultures to harmonize through family, but it also can be helpful for family members who are separated over long distances. This story can help children appreciate family, and guide them in creating positive memories themselves. I am so glad I was able to review this outstanding story and I heartily recommend it to families with young children the world over.
