Born Naughy: My Childhood in China, written by Jin Wang with Tony Johnston and illustrated by Anisi Baigude. Penguin Random House, 2024. $ 23.50 ages 7 and up

 

"At night we had only kerosene lamps for light. 
But we did not use those much, because kerosene
cost a lot. When the dark was coming, I had to 
eat my food fast before I could not see it. 
On this night, I ate fast. Like always. Soon our 
house was black, black. There was nothing else 
to do but say good night, then sleep and dream 
about the wonderful fox, the wonderful singing 
with Die, the wonderful well, and our wonderful 
trip together." 

Oh, I loved reading this memoir filled with adventure, humor, and love for family. Jin Wang tells her story, with help from Tony Johnston, about life in Nan Ba Zi in Inner Mongolia, China. There are only 18 homes in their village. Most readers will be very unfamiliar with and surprised by the simplicity and hardship of it. At age 8, in 1982, she lives with her mother, and two brothers in a one-room mud house while her father works far away making bamboo steamers. His visits are few and far between; the joy experienced when he is home is palpable. 

Her storytelling style is chatty and most enjoyable as she shares her tales of family life, friendship, and her cultural traditions. A trip with her father (while he is home for a short visit) to fill their water tank lets readers understand the difficulties that arise when a house has no running water. Nor does it have electricity; everyone goes to bed as darkness falls. Her mother's beliefs and customs are a part of their village life. A few are quite startling and unusual. Other tales include a visit from the traveling popcorn man, being with friends, touching her tongue to a metal doorknob, climbing trees when explicitly told not to do so, and other community events. 

Celebrating the New Year calls for hard work to prepare the house, the food, and the clothing that usher in good fortune for the year to come.  The evening is long as they wait for the old year to turn, and offer a chance to welcome the new year. What good fortune will the new year bring? 

Notes from both authors offer interesting insight into the meeting that led to putting pen to paper and creating this most memorable and delightful read.