Shanghai Messenger
Ed Young
(Illustrator)
Description
Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature - Asian/Pacific American Librarians Association (APALA)
A story in verse of a biracial Chinese American girl's journey to self-discovery and love of family as she visits her extended family in Shanghai, China. For middle grade readers.
"You are my messenger. Look everything. Remember." Grandma Nai Nai tells eleven-year-old Xiao Mei as the girl heads off to Shanghai, China, to visit their extended family. Xiao Mei is both excited and apprehensive. She will meet many new relatives, but will they accept her, a girl from America who is only half Chinese?
Xiao Mei is eagerly embraced by her aunties, uncles and cousins and quickly immersed in the sights, smells and hubbub of daily living in Shanghai. At first battling homesickness, Xiao Mei soon ventures on her own, discovering the excitement of a different way of life and a new appreciation of her Chinese heritage. When it is finally time to leave, Xiao Mei must gather up her memories and bring "a little bit of China" back home.
Ed Young's exquisite drawings touchingly highlight Andrea Cheng's lyrical story of adventure, self-discovery, and the strong bonds that tie families together.
Product Details
| Publisher | Lee & Low Books |
| Publish Date | September 01, 2005 |
| Pages | 40 |
| Language | English |
| Type |  Paperback / softback |
| EAN/UPC | 9781620142301 |
| Dimensions | 9.3 X 7.2 X 0.3 inches | 0.3 pounds |
About the Author
Andrea Cheng was the author of several award-winning and critically acclaimed books for young readers. Her works range from picture books to young adult novels, and her stories often draw on the experiences of her Hungarian relatives or her husband's Chinese family. Cheng was inspired here by Dave's heroism, courage, and creative struggle. She taught English as a Second Language at Cincinnati State Technical and Community College, and passed away in late 2015.
Ed Young is one of the most versatile and highly honored illustrators of children's books today. He has won numerous awards for his illustrations, including the Caldecott Medal in 1990 and Caldecott Honors in 1993 and 1989. A native of Shanghai, China, Young now lives in Hastings-on-Hudson, New York, with his wife and their children.
Reviews
* "Wonderfully evocative." -- Kirkus Reviews, starred review
* "Readers of any ethnic background will enjoy learning about China through Xiao Mei's curious eyes, but for those with far-flung families, the book will have special significance." -- Publishers Weekly, starred review
"This is a superb book, capturing both the excitement and adventure of Xiao Mei's trip, as well as her realization that family ties can bridge great distances." -- School Library Journal
Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature - Asian/Pacific American Librarians Association (APALA)
Best Children's Books of the Year - Bank Street College of Education
CALA Book Award - Chinese American Librarians Association
Junior Library Guild Selection
Notable Books for a Global Society - International Literacy Association (ILA)
Triple Crown Awards Shortlist - National Christian School Association
William Allen White Children's Book Award - Emporia State University
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