SYNOPSIS

The stories of a sweet, funny, creative Taiwanese-American 5th grader and her family teach us about heritage pride, the beauty of being unique, growing up, fitting in, and remaining curious.

PERFECT AGE 8 – 14

THEMES

• Appreciating one’s unique cultural heritage, family traditions, and family memories
• Fitting in with peers
• Exploring new skills, learning from failures, working hard at school
• Budding romantic feelings

We love

• Sweet and engaging stories about mom’s, dad’s and grandparents’ youth in Taiwan
• The omnipresence of food – in traditions, in creating friendships, in almost every simile!
• Pacy references her Chinese roots when creating a book for school – it not only helps her learn about her family’s history but also makes her stand out in a big national competition!

WATCH OUT FOR (Language, Big / Sensitive Topics, Outdated Concepts):

• Two best friends have a crush on the same boy… who ends up choosing another girl for his girlfriend. Pretty tame stuff all around, esp. if the “boyfriend” / “girlfriend” topic has already been introduced in your household.

CONVERSATION STARTERS

• What are the other symbols of the Chinese calendar?
• Let’s talk to our grandma / grandpa / another relative what it was like when they went to school!
• What have you thought about becoming when you grow up?
• What is one interesting tradition you leaned about from Pacy’s stories?