Common Sense Media Review
By Tracy Moore
,
based on child development research. How do we rate?
Classic read-aloud has problematic portrayal of Chinese.
Parents Need to Know
Why Age 4+?
Any Positive Content?
Where to Read
What's the Story?
TIKKI TIKKI TEMBO is a first son, and, as such, he has an important -- and very long -- name: Tikki Tikki Tembo-no Sa Rembo-chari Bari Ruchi-pip Peri Pembo, which, the book says, means "The Most Wonderful Thing in the Whole Wide World." His brother, Chang, not only has a shorter name but one that means much less: It means "little" or "nothing." (This explanation is part of the story, but there are no actual Chinese words in Tikki Tikki Tembo's name, and, while Chang is a Chinese name, the definition given isn't accurate.) When Tikki Tikki Tembo falls down a well and Chang must rescue him, Chang and others in the community soon learn that a big long, important name can get in the way.
Is It Any Good?
This visually appealing, folktale-like story demonstrates positive sibling and positive community relationships, but its portrayal of Chinese people, culture, and language is problematic. Kids enjoy the repetition of Tikki Tikki Tembo's full name, but it isn't real Chinese. The story does show the value of honoring traditions while being open to newer, better ways, should they prove useful.
Parents can use this story as a teachable moment about bias and stereotypes and may want to seek out genuine Chinese folktales and books that accurately portray Chinese culture, language, and perspective. To find some good choices, check out our list of Asian and Asian American Books.
Talk to Your Kids About ...
Families can talk about the inaccurate portrayal of Chinese people and culture in Tikki Tikki Tembo. How does it demonstrate stereotyping? Why are stereotypes harmful?
Does your name have a special meaning? If so, what is it?
How did you get your name? Are you named after anyone in your family? Do you have a shorter nickname?
Book Details
- Author :
- Illustrator : Blair Lent
- Genre : Picture Book
- Topics : Family Stories ( Siblings )
- Book type : Fiction
- Publisher : Henry Holt & Company, Inc.
- Publication date : January 1, 1968
- Publisher's recommended age(s) : 4 - 8
- Number of pages : 48
- Available on : Paperback, Nook, Audiobook (unabridged), Hardback, Apple Books, Kindle
- Last updated : September 30, 2025
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