I Am Golden
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A Lot or a Little?
The parents' guide to what's in this book.
What Parents Need to Know
Parents need to know that I Am Golden is a bright and colorful picture book by New York Times bestselling author Eva Chen, about a girl named Mei and her Chinese American immigrant family. Beautifully illustrated by Sophie Diao, this book talks about feeling different and what it might feel like being an Asian American kid growing up in Měi Guó (America). One scene deals with being made fun of for looking different or Asian. The art features images of Chinese culture, mythology, and history. There are dragons, phoenixes, jade rabbits, lotus flowers, magpies, bamboo, sesame balls, steamed pork buns, and family photos. The text is written in the second person, addressed directly to the main character, Mei. At the end of the book are notes from both the author and the illustrator, each telling their own story of what it was like growing up Asian American.
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What's the Story?
In I AM GOLDEN, Mei is a Chinese American girl who is made fun of at school for being different and Asian. Her parents remind her that there is great beauty and power in being different. They also show Mei many ways that she's connected to her family, ancestors, and culture.
Is It Any Good?
This gorgeous picture book is a welcome addition to strong and empowered representations of Asian American identity and culture in all its variety. Chinese American girl Mei is growing up as both "teacher and translator" to her family and a "bridge" between two cultures and countries, represented as fearless, powerful, and happy. Every page of I Am Golden shows off Chinese culture, tradition, history, and diversity. The book simply and effectively presents the positive messages that being different is beautiful and that we can stand up to racism. It's a wonderful expression of Chinese American and Asian American identity, and the story reads well, is easy to understand, and packs in lots of great words and imagery. The notes from the book's creators at the end provide meaningful commentary on the Asian American immigrant experience.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about feeling different from other kids. Do you ever feel like Mei in I Am Golden? What can help you feel better?
Why do you think Mei's family tells stories while eating dinner? Do you like telling stories?
If Mei has a golden flame inside her, what color would your flame be and why?
Book Details
- Author: Eva Chen
- Illustrator: Sophie Diao
- Genre: Family Life
- Topics: Great Girl Role Models
- Book type: Fiction
- Publisher: Feiwel & Friends
- Publication date: February 1, 2022
- Publisher's recommended age(s): 4 - 6
- Number of pages: 40
- Available on: Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Kindle
- Award: Common Sense Selection
- Last updated: April 1, 2022
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