"Amah brought them to
the parks
she enjoyed.
Kylie eyed Amah sideways.
Amah took them shopping
at the night market - where
she seemed to try and buy
everything."
A trip from San Francisco to Taipei with her mother is anxiety-enducing for Kylie. The purpose of the visit is to spend time with her Amah, which has never happened. Kylie's mother is very excited, sharing ideas for what they will do while they are there.
It is not that Kylie doesn't know her grandmother. They connect weekly by computer - telling stories, singing songs, and showing snacks they might share. Will a real-life visit be okay? Once they arrive, Kylie remains nervous. It is a bit difficult to understand what Amah says, and everything about Amah's apartment is new and very different. A huge family dinner with many relatives and much food does little to make her feel more comfortable.
Amah shows them the city she loves: the parks, the foods, the playgrounds, the market, and the hot springs. Amah encourages Kylie to join her in the water. What a change for Kylie. From then on, Kylie wants to be the leader for every new adventure. She begins to recognize some words in Taiwanese. She loves everything about being with Amah. As often happens when it's time to return home, Kylie is reticent. She likes being with Amah, and now they must leave. They continue to connect by computer on Saturdays - much more enjoyable after the in-person visit. She will see Amah again - this time in San Francisco!
This is a happy story, written to reflect the changes that happen when a granddaughter visits a faraway grandmother she does not know well. The author's gentle words are complemented by clear images created with India ink, Japanese watercolor, pastel and colored pencil. The illustrations take readers to the heart of Taipei where the family learns much about the city, while also learning about each other.
Back matter includes anecdotes from both author and illustrator, as well as information about Taipei sights and Taiwanese food.
No comments:
Post a Comment