Selected Writings of the 14th Dalai Lama:
The Bodhgaya Interviews . Edited by Jose Ignacio Cabezon. New York: Snow Lion, 1988.
Compassion and the Individual. Boston: Wisdom, 1991.
The Dalai Lama: A Policy of Kindness. Compiled and edited by Sidney Piburn. New York: Snow Lion, 1990.
Freedom in Exile: An Autobiography of the Dalai Lama . New York: Harper Collins, 1990.
A Human Approach to World Peace. London, Wisdom, 1984.
My Land and My People . New York: McGraw-Hill, 1962; New York: Potala, 1983.
Ocean of Wisdom: Guidelines for Living . San Francisco: Harper and Row, 1990.
Path to Bliss: A Practical Guide to Stages of Meditation . Translated by Geyshe
Thubten Jinpa. Edited by Christine Cox. New York: Snow Lion, 1991.
Tibet, China and the World: A Compilation of Interviews. Dharamsala; Narthang, 1989.
Books and Articles about Tibet for young readers:
Evers, Kimberly M., Kevin Heller, Alejandro Ramirez, Jane Reid and Enola Roman. Explore Tibet. Newark, N.J.: The Newark Museum, 1992.
Gerstein, Mordecai. The Mountains of Tibet. New York: Harper & Row, 1987.
Ghose, Sudhin. Tibetan Folk Tales and Fairy Stories. Calcutta: Rupa & Co., 1986.
Gibb, Christopher. The Land of Snows. History of Tibet. Book 1. Dharamsala: Tibetan Children's Village, 1984.
Gibb, Christopher. Independence to Exile. History of Tibet. Book 2. Dharamsala: Tibetan Children's Village, 1987.
O'Conner, W.F. Folk Tales from Tibet. Kathmandu: Ratna Pustak Bhandar, 1977.
Stewart, Whitney. Butter Tea and Momos." Highlights for Children. July-August 1992, pg. 36- 37.
Books and articles about the 14th Dalai Lama for young readers:
Demi. The Dalai Lama: A Biography of the Tibetan Spiritual and Political Leader. New York: Henry Holt & Company, Inc., 1998)
In simple language and glorious art, Demi pays tribute to the 14th Dalai Lama's remarkable life, capturing the beauty of Tibetan culture, as well as the charm, talent, and vision of one of the world's best-known spiritual figures.
Gibb, Christopher. The Dalai Lama (People who have helped the world). Milwaukee: Gareth Stevens Children's Books, 1990.
Stewart, Whitney. To the Lion Throne . Ithaca, NY: Snow Lion Publications, 1989.
Stewart, Whitney. The 14 th Dalai Lama . Minneapolis: Lerner Publications, 1996.
Stewart, Whitney. Whispering in Tibet." BlueEar.com, 1998.
Stewart's reflections on a trip to Tibet and the changes and modernization she noticed in the year since she'd last visited.
Stewart, Whitney. Carry Kindness." Highlights for Children.
A brief retelling of the life of the 14th Dalai Lama and his philosophy of living.
Articles about Whitney Stewart's book The 14th Dalai Lama: Spiritual Leader of Tibet:
Berman, Matt. Good karma." The Times-Picayune (New Orleans, LA). 25 February, 1996.
Books and Articles about Tibet and the Dalai Lama for adults:
Avedon, John. In Exile from the Land of the Snows. London: Michael Joseph, 1984.
Chophel, Norbu. Folk Culture of Tibet. Dharamsala: library of Tibetan Works and Archives, 1983.
Goodman, Michael Harris. The Last Dalai Lama. Boston: Shambala, 1986.
Harrer, Heinrich. Seven Years in Tibet. New York: E.P. Dutton, 1954.
Hicks, Roger & Ngakpa Chogyan. Great Ocean. London: Element Books, 1984.
Norbu, Thubten, J. & Heinrich Harrer. Tibet is My Country. London: Wisdom Publications, 1986.
Piburn, Sidney. The Dalai Lama: A Policy of Kindness. Ithaca, N.Y.: Snow Lion Publications, 1990.
Tung, Rosemary Jones. A Portrait of Lost Tibet. Ithaca, N.Y.: Snow Lion Publications, 1987.
Picture Books about Buddhism:
Chodzin, Sherab, Alexandra Kohn, and Marie Cameron (Illustrator). The Wisdom of the Crows and Other Buddhist Tales. Tricycle Press, 1998
Ranging from short Zen parables to longer folktales with dragons, goddesses, and talking animals, these tales explore Buddhist themes of compassion, humor, enlightenment, and life after death. This beautifully illustrated book is perfect for anyone interested in Buddhist ideas--and anyone who enjoys a good story.
Demi. Buddha. New York: Henry Holt & Company, Inc., 1996.
Many centuries ago, a child was born to a king and queen in the land that is now India. The young prince, Siddhartha, was raised in the greatest luxury, sheltered from all pain and ugliness. But one day, Siddhartha left the palace and saw, for the first time, human suffering and death. He knew then that he must relinquish everything to discover the Truth of life. Demi's exquisite illustrations add a mystical dimension to this biography of an extraordinary spiritual leader.
Demi. Buddha Stories. New York: Henry Holt & Company, Inc., 1997.
Filled with wisdom and insight, this beautiful collection of fables will continue to educate and entertain children for years to come. Demi has retold ten of the Buddha's parables and illustrated them in gold and indigo, in the tradition of the most ancient Buddhist texts.
Langley, Myrtle and David Pickering. Religion. (Eyewitness Books.) New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1996.
Photographed in full color. Explore the fascinating practices, the sacred rituals, and the important role religion plays in cultures around the world. From the relationship between gods and nature in Greece to the goddess festivals in India to the emergence of the Christian community in America, this stunning book offers a wonderful overview of the world's major religions
Lee, Jeanne M. I Once Was a Monkey: Stories Buddha Told . New York: Farrar Straus & Giroux, 1999.
Known as Jatakas, or birth stories, these six fables are those Buddha originally told to his disciples when occasion arose to illustrate his teachings. Each retelling features animal characters and an incarnation of the Buddha from an earlier life, usually as an animal himself. From the tale of the clever monkey outwitting a crocodile to that of a bird and turtle rescuing a friend, these amusing parables embody some of the central tenets of Buddha's philosophy.
Martin, Rafe. The Hungry Tigress: Buddhist Myths, Legends, and Jataka Tales. Yellow Moon Press, 1999.
Rafe Martin brings together a fascinating array of stories from the Buddhist tradition. These stories include legends of the historical Buddha’s birth, life, and enlightenment as well as traditional Jataka tales, stories of the Buddha in his former births, often appearing in animal form. In many of these seemingly simple tales, wise animals teach humans important lessons about the central Buddhist principles of wisdom, heroic action, nonviolence and compassion. From the familiar legend of the Buddha's enlightenment, to the title story of a tenderhearted prince who offers his body to a starving tigress and her cubs, to a twentieth-century tale based on the heroic act of a World War II pilot, these stories are imbued with deep interest in the natural world and empathy for all things living.
Osborne, Mary Pope. One World, Many Religions: The Ways We Worship. New York: Alfred A. Knopf, 1996.
Bestselling children's author Mary Pope Osborne presents an accessible and elegantly crafted volume that introduces young readers to the world's seven major religions. Six short, readable chapters--perfectly targeted to fourth, fifth, and sixth graders--detail the history, beliefs, and practices of Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism, Confucianism, and Taoism.
Stewart, Whitney. Sally Rippin, Illustrator. Becoming Buddha . Melbourne, Australia: Lothian Books, 1995.
Beautifully illustrated in bold, close-up images, this book tells the life story of the historical Buddha.
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Books By Aung San Suu Kyi:
Aung San Suu Kyi. Let’s Visit Burma. London: Burke Publishing Company, 1985
Aung San Suu Kyi. Freedom from Fear. New York: Penguin Books, 1991.
AungSan Suu Kyl. Letters from Burma. New York: Penguin Books.1997.
Aung San Suu Kyi and Alan Clements. The Voice of Hope: Conversations with Alan Clements. New York: Seven Stories Press, 1997.
Books About Aung San Suu Kyi:
Ling, Bettina. Aung San Suu Kyi: Standing up for Democracy. New York, NY:
The Feminist Press, at The City University of New York, 1999.
Parenteau, John. Prisoner for Peace: Aung San Suu Kyi and Burma’s Struggle for Democracy. Champions of Freedom Series. Greensboro, N.C.: Morgan Reynolds, Inc. 1994
Victor, Barbara. The Lady: Aung San Suu Kyi, Nobel Laureate and Burma’s Prisoner. London: Faber & Faber, 1998.
Wright, David K. Burma: Enchantment of the World. Ann Arbor, Mich. Children’s
Small Press Collective, 1991.
Articles about Whitney Stewart's book Aung San Suu Kyi: Fearless Voice of Burma:
Bloom, Meredith. Biographer Stewart to discuss works at bookstore."
Manchester Journal (New Hampshire). 17 July, 1997.
Casey, Ethan. The lady is a paradox." 13 April, 1997.
Faciane, Valerie. Nobel winner fields questions." The Times-Picayune
(New Orleans, Louisiana). 23 May, 1996
Kohlepp, Peg. Wonder woman." Times-Picayune (New Orleans, Louisiana).
2 March, 1997.
Soong, Tina. Writer visits Nobel winner." Times-Picayune (New Orleans,
Louisiana). 25 January, 1996.
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Books and articles By Sir Edmund Hillary:
Hillary, Sir Edmund. Jimmy Job and the Tiger." Told to Whitney Stewart and Anne B. Keiser.
Hillary's father often told his children fantastic tales about an elflike character named Jimmy Job, who had narrow escapes from dangerous tigers and the forces of evil. This is one such story.
Hillary, Sir Edmund. View from the Summit. London: Doubleday, 1999.
Hillary, Sir Edmund and Desmond Doig. High in the Thin Cold Air. Garden City, New York: Doubledav, 1986.
Hillary, Sir Edmund, and Peter Hillary. Ascent: Two Lives Explored. Garden City, N.Y.: Doubleday & Co., 1986.
Hillary, Sir Edmund, and Peter Hillary. Two Generations. London: Hoddel and Stoughton, 1984.
Hillary, Sir Edmund. 1982."Preserving a Mountain Heritage." National Geographic. Vol. 161. No. 6:696-702.
Hillary, Sir Edmund. From the Ocean to the Sky. London: Hoddel, and Stoughton. 1979.
Hillary, Sir Edmund. Nothing Venture, Nothing Win. New York: Coward, McCann & Geoghegan, Inc., 1975.
Hillary, Sir Edmund. Schoolhouse in the Clouds. Garden City, New York: Doubleday, 1964.
Hillary, Sir Edmund. No Latitude for Error. London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1961.
Hillary, Sir Edmund. 1962. "We Build a School for Sherpa Children." National Geographic. Vol. 122, No. 4: 548-551.
Hillary, Sir Edmund. High Adventure. London: Hoddel, and Stoughton, 1955.
Hillary, Sir Edmund. 1955. "Beyond Everest." National Geographic. Vol. 105. No. 5:579-610.
Hillary, Sir Edmund. 1954. "The Conquest of the Summit." National Geographic. Vol. 106, No. 1: 45-63.
Hunt, Sir John with Sir Edmund Hilary. The Conquest of Everest. New York: E.P. Dutton & Company, 1954.
Books and articles about Sir Edmund Hillary:
Bishop, Barry C. 1962. "Wintering on the Roof of the World." National Geographic. Vol.122, No. 4: 503--54 7.
Coburn, Broughton. Everest: Mountain Without Mercy. Washington, D.C.: National Geographic Books, 1997.
Evans, Charles. Eye on Everest: A Sketch Book from the Great Everest Expedition. London: Dennis Dobson, 1955.
Fuchs, Sir Vivian. A Time to Speak: An Autobiography. Oswestry, Shropshire, England; Anthony Nelson, 1990.
Fuchs, Sir Vivian. 1959. "The Crossing of Antarctica." National Geographic. Vol. 115, No 1: 25-47.
Hillary, Louise. High Time. New York: E.P. Dutton & Co., 1974.
Hillary, Louise. Keep Calm If You Can. New York: Doubleday & Co. 1964.
Hunt, Brigadier Sir John. 1954. "Siege and Assault." National Geographic. Vol. 106, No. 1: 1-43.
Norgay, Tenzing, with James Ramsey Ulman. Tiger of the Snows. New York: G.P. Putnam's Sons, 1955.
Ridgeway, Rick. 1982. "Park at the Top of the World." National Geographic. Vol. 161, No.6:704-725.
Books about Mt. Everest and the Himalayan Region:
Krakauer, Jon. Into Thin Air: A Personal Account of the Mt. Everest Disaster. New York: Villard Books, 1997.
Articles about Whitney Stewart's book Sir Edmund Hillary: To Everest and Beyond:
Kohlepp, Peg. 'Miracles' worker." Times-Picayune (New Orleans, Louisiana). 12 May, 1996.
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Reviews of Deng Xiaoping: Leader in a Changing China
Kohlepp, Peg . "From China to St. Charles: Whitney Stewart takes young readers on a journey around the world." New Orleans Times-Picayune, April 16, 2001
Ancient Chinese History
Cheng-An Chiang. 1998. Empress of China, Wu Ze Tian. Victory Press.
The tale of the beautiful nun turned Empress, Wu Ze Tian. She held power for almost half a century during the Tang Dynasty (618- 907 AD), a period of prosperity and cultural achievement in China. She was the only female emperor in more than 5,000 years of Chinese history.
Cheng an Jiang. 1997. Legend of Mu Lan: A Heroine of Ancient China. Victory Press.
In ancient, war-torn China, hundreds and hundreds of men were called upon to defend their homeland. Unknown to all, there stood one female among the soldiers. Disguised as her brother, in order to take her father's place in the army, heroine Mu Lan bravely defends her country with superior martial arts.
Cotterell, Arthur. 2000. Eyewitness: Ancient China. New York: DK Publishing.
A spectacular and informative guide to the history of the great Chinese empire and the customs and traditions of its people. Stunning real-life photographs and lifelike models offer a unique "eyewitness" view of life in imperial China, from its earliest beginnings in the Bronze Age to its final days in the early years of the 20th century. See the stunning bronze work of the ancient Chinese, an early irrigation machine, a set of antique acupuncture needles, the beautiful implements used for Chinese calligraphy. Learn why the First Emperor created the terra-cotta army, what kinds of goods were carried along the Silk Route, who invented paper, how a Chinese house was constructed, why tombs were filled with pottery figures, and what a civil servant's job entailed. Discover why emperors were known as Sons of Heaven, what kinds of weapons were used in early battles, why families worshiped their ancestors, how fishermen used bivas to catch fish, and much, much more.
Fisher, Leonard Everett. 1995. The Great Wall of China. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks.
A brief history of the Great Wall of China, begun about 2,200 years ago to keep out Mongol invaders.
Hall, Eleanor J. 2000. Ancient Chinese Dynasties (World History Series). Lucent Books
Grade 6 and up—In clear and understandable language, Hall dispels myths and carefully sorts reality from fiction concerning the earliest of the myriad Chinese dynasties. An introductory time line, beginning with 2000 B.C. and progressing to A.D. 618, serves as a valuable reference point in support of the succeeding chapters. The text delves into various aspects of everyday life during the specific eras, as well as that of culture and customs.
Simpson, Judith. 1996. Ancient China (Nature Company Discoveries). New York: Time Life.
A brief overview of China's dynasties, beliefs, lifestyles, and arts through realistic artwork and numerous color photographs. A time line is included.
(Bibliography compiled by Chelle Rudelson)
Modern Chinese History
MODERN CHINA
Note: These books are written to a middle/upper school audience. Some of the materials are very serious and graphic, as was this period of Chinese history. Not only is the subject matter quite sophisticated, the language used by the authors was clearly meant for older readers.
Allan, Tony. 2001. The Long March: The Making of Communist China (Point of Impact). Heinemann Library.
An excellent, in-depth account of Mao's Long March and the creation of the People's Republic.
Da Chen. 2001. China's Son: Growing Up in the Cultural Revolution. Delacorte Press.
Born in 1962 in southern China, Da Chen had monumental hurdles to overcome before he could even walk or talk. Mao Zedong's Cultural Revolution was in full swing, and the descendents of landlords, who were despised, were routinely stripped of their wealth, beaten, humiliated, and sent off to labor camps. Da Chen, the grandson of a landlord, lives several parallel lives: he excels in school but then gives up studying in the face of unbearable pressure and harassment from teachers, students, and administrators. He is a self-taught musician but also a member of a gang of toughs. His siblings, banned from school, work from before sunrise to sunset in the muddy, backbreaking rice fields. Eventually, Da makes a break for a new life and goes to college.
Fritz, Jean. 1988. China's Long March: 6000 Miles of Danger. Putnam Publishing Group Juvenile.
In 1986, Jean Fritz went to China and talked to survivors of the Long March. It is from their recollections and her own broad, personal knowledge of Chinese history that she has written one of the most compelling accounts of the incredible 6,000 mile journey across China made by the Communist Army in 1934 and 1935.
Jiang, Jig-Li. 1997. Red Scarf Girl: A Memoir of the Cultural Revolution. New York: HarperCollins Juvenile Books.
Jill Jiang was twelve years old in 1966, the year that Chairman Mao launched the Cultural Revolution in China. An outstanding student and much-admired leader of her class, Ji-li seemed poised for a shining future. But all that changed with the advent of the Cultural Revolution, when intelligence became a crime and a wealthy family background invited persecution or worse. For the next three years Ji-li and her family were humiliated and reviled by their former friends, neighbors, and colleagues and lived in constant terror of attack. At last, with the detention of her father, Ji-li was faced with the most dreadful decision of her young life: denounce him and break with her family, or refuse to testify against him and sacrifice her future in her beloved Communist Party.
Kite, Lorien. 2000. The Chinese (We Came to North America). Crabtree Publications.
An account of early Chinese immigrants coming to North America working in gold mines, on farms, and on the railroads. This fascinating account of their early contributions and the prejudice they faced is highlighted with full-color artwork and eyewitness accounts. Detailed maps show where they settled and how their traditions are still celebrated today.
Kort, Michael G. 1995. China Under Communism. Millbrook Press.
A detailed, yet concise history of the Communist movement in China, starting with a brief look at the empire, then guiding readers through the republic, socialist China, and Mao's Great Leap Forward and Cultural Revolution, ending with the rise to power of Deng Xiaoping. The subject matter is difficult and will be best for advanced readers. Great pictures, excellent index, a helpful glossary, and a solid suggested reading list. A good in-a-nutshell overview of the subject.
Namioka, Lensey. 1999. Ties That Bind, Ties That Break: A Novel. Delacorte Press.
Third Sister in the Tao family, Ailin has watched her two older sisters go through the painful process of having their feet bound. In China in 1911, all the women of good families follow this ancient tradition. But Ailin loves to run away from her governess and play games with her male cousins. Knowing she will never run again once her feet are bound, Ailin rebels and refuses to follow this torturous tradition. As a result, however, the family of her intended husband breaks their marriage agreement. And as she enters adolescence, Ailin finds that her family is no longer willing to support her. Chinese society leaves few options for a single woman of good family, but with a bold conviction and an indomitable spirit, Ailin is determined to forge her own destiny. Her story is a tribute to all those women whose courage created new options for the generations who came after them.
Pietrusza, David. 1997. The Chinese Cultural Revolution. Lucent Books
A complete and evenhanded account of the "Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution." Begins with a brief summary of Chinese history since the fall of the last emperor in 1911, and continues on with the early history of the Chinese Communist party and the People's Republic, laying the background for the epic struggle by Mao Zedong to consolidate his power. Subsequent chapters detail the rise of the Red Guards, the young people who ran amok, and Mao's use of the army to get them back under control. Mao's death, Deng Xiaoping's rise to power, and the 1989 demonstration at Tiananmen Square are covered.
Zhang, Song Nan. 1995. A Little Tiger in the Chinese Night: An Autobiography in Art. Tundra Books.
An artist (b. 1942) who did his best to remain a loyal Chinese citizen through the Cultural Revolution—but finally escaped to Canada in 1989—now shares his story. Zhang's straightforward narrative, powerful in its honesty, is much enriched by his detailed art. Zhang's father, a Communist official early on, was later declared suspect and his family was forcibly scattered. Meanwhile, the boy received an art education, but the regime's demands left him little time to paint. Selling four paintings to an American enabled him to go to Canada, where, in the aftermath of Tiananmen Square, he received sanctuary. His wife and sons were able to join him in the United States. His paintings and sketches enhance Zhang’s fascinating account of his grueling experience .
Modern Chinese Culture
CHINESE CULTURE
Demi. 1998. Happy New Year! Kung-Hsi Fa-Ts'Ai. Crown Publishing.
Firecrackers, feasts, dragon dances! These are just a few of the customs included in Demi's book, Happy New Year! Kung-Hsi Fa-Ts'ai. The activities and traditions that make up the Chinese New Year festivities are portrayed in beautiful, full-color detail. Each spread contains a brief explanation of the significance of each custom and how it fits into the month-long celebration.
Dramer, Kim. 1999. People's Republic of China. Children's Press.
An attractive, insightful book with a broad scope. Chapters cover China's global importance, geography, plants and wildlife, history, government, food and transportation, people and language, religion, the arts, and children. Full-color photographs appear throughout the text and a variety of color maps provide orientation and clarification. A "To Find Out More" section includes nonfiction books, Websites, and organizations and embassies.
Johnson, Anne Akrs. 1997. Chinese Jump Rope. Klutz, Inc
A complete, wire-bound guide to Chinese jump rope includes illustrated instructions for a wide variety of popular games, directions for creating a rope of one's own, and two sturdy elastic jump ropes.
Kalman, Bobbie. 2000. China: The Culture (The Lands, Peoples, and the Cultures Series). Crabtree Publications.
A celebration of the achievements of China's 4000-year-old civilization. This book traces the origins of New China's celebrations back to its ancient past
Krach, Maywan Shen. 2000. D Is for Doufu: An Alphabet Book of Chinese Culture. Shen's Books.
Carefully selected Chinese words and phrases take you on a journey through Chinese history and through the lives and customs of its people. The translations of 23 phrases (46 characters) are included in this beautifully illustrated book that explores the richness of the Chinese culture. Each phrase is introduced by a written image and an explanation of the spoken Mandarin language, as well as a picture representing the concept. Some of these Chinese words have been borrowed and shared by other people.
Shang, Hao Yu. 2000. A Time of Golden Dragons. Tundra Books.
An explanation of the Chinese 12-year zodiac, symbolized by animals such as the rat and the dragon. As well as the less familiar cycle, approximately two years in length, which moves through the elements of wood, fire, earth, metal (gold), and water. This picture book for older children offers facts about dragon origins, dragon boat races, dragon homes, and other enticing dragon tidbits as it introduces the mythical creature as viewed through Asian cultures.
Stone, Lynn M. 2000. The Provinces of China. The Rourke Book Company, Inc.
China is home to more than one hundred minority groups. This book discusses China’s minority people and diverse provinces.
Wang, Tao. 2000. Exploration into China. Chelsea House Publishing.
Acquaints readers with the varied people of China. Stefoff has an impressive command of the facts, organizing them into smooth chapters on history, economy, culture, and government. Plenty of photos, a time line, and maps .
Folklore
CHINESE FOLKLORE
OLDER READERS:
Birch, Cyril. 2001. Tales from China. Oxford University Press Children’s Books.
Excellent collection of Chinese folktales.
Roberts, Moss. 1980. Chinese Fairy Tales and Fantasies. Random House
This fresh and elegant translation of 100 tales from 25 centuries of Chinese literature opens up a magical world far from our customary haunts. Illustrated with woodcuts.
PICTURE BOOKS:
Casanova, Mary. 2000. The Hunter: A Chinese Folktale. Atheneum
Hai Li Bu is a good hunter, but not even he can find enough food for his village when the drought comes. The people grow thin and weak, the children rarely laugh. They begin to argue and stop listening to one another. Out on a hunt one day, Hai Li Bu saves a small snake from the beak of a crane. He is surprised to learn that he has rescued the daughter of the Dragon King of the Sea. The Dragon King offers Hai Li Bu the reward of his choice. Hai Li Bu asks only to know the language of animals. Then he can be a better hunter for his village. His wish is granted with a provision: He must never reveal the secret of his gift to anyone. Hai Li Bu's people are saved from famine, but when he hears from the animals that a flood is coming that will destroy everything in his village, the people do not listen to him. "You ask us to leave our homes. How can we know what you say is true?" a village elder asks him. Now Hai Li Bu is faced with a terrible choice: to let the people of his village die in the flood or to reveal his secret, knowing the dire consequences for himself.
Ching, Simon. The Cricket's Cage: A Chinese Folktale
Magic plays a role in this old Chinese folktale about a cricket (a Chinese omen of good luck) that brings more than simple good fortune to a young and kindly carpenter. The carpenter's cricket uses his antennae to draw the design for the royal watchtowers of the Forbidden City. The design, which has previously eluded human architects and builders, pleases the emperor and saves the royal minister, the master builder, and the carpenter from execution. Youngsters will find the story's conflict compelling enough to sort through the parade of characters quickly introduced at the tale's beginning. The artwork, which utilizes Chinese character writing, bright colors, and traditional designs, adds a feel of authenticity to the folktale. Czernecki positions text and illustrations over borders of bright yellow embroidered dragon motifs. An author's note includes more information and an English translation of a poem.
Demi. The Magic Tapestry: A Chinese Folktale
In this retelling of a traditional Chinese folktale, an impoverished widow with an extraordinary talent for weaving works day and night for three years to finish her most beautiful tapestry to date. Her two older sons, tired of her preoccupation with weaving, begin quarreling and lose faith in their mother. Only her youngest son understands her need, and he alone continues working to support his family. When the tapestry is finally complete, it seems to breathe with life, "Flowers shimmered with threads of brilliant sunlight and little animals danced magically throughout the woven pattern." While the two older sons argue about who will sell this work of art, a great wind blows it out the door and into the eastern sky. Each son is sent out to find the tapestry and bring it home. The two older sons take the easy way out and accept a bribe of valuable jewels, then flee to the city, never to be seen again. As the youngest son sets out he promises to return with the tapestry. When he meets the Fierce Guardian, he bravely faces the challenges—the Mountain of Fire and the Sea of Ice—and upon reaching his destination he finds beautiful fairy princesses weaving copies of his mother's prized possession.
Heyer, Marilee. 1989. The Weaving of a Dream: A Chinese Folktale. Viking Press.
Heyer retells an engrossing Chinese folktale about an old woman who weaves exquisite brocades. Full-color illustrations
Hume, Lotta Carswell. 2001. Favorite Children's Stories From China and Tibet. Tuttle Publishing
Favorite Children's Stories from China and Tibet is a delightful collection of 19 fascinating, time-honored tales that have captivated Chinese and Tibetan families for centuries. From animals that speak and play tricks on each other to humans who perform magic, each story allows children to peek into the legends of two distant and ancient lands. This wonderful collection includes: The Wishing Cup, A Hungry Wolf, The Tower that Reached from Earth to Heaven, A Chinese Cinderella, and many more Chinese and Tibetan favorites.
Mathews, Judith. 1993. Two of Everything: A Chinese Folktale. Albert Whitman & Co.
Mr. and Mrs. Haktak find a magic pot that makes a copy of everything that is put inside. The Haktaks are delighted until Mrs. Haktak falls into the pot, and the trouble begins. .
Yacowitz, Caryn. The Jade Stone: A Chinese Folktale
When the Emperor of China is given a perfect piece of jade, he orders master carver Chan Lo to form from it ``a dragon of wind and fire.'' But Chan Lo can carve only what he hears in the stone, and the gentle, playful sounds emanating from this noble piece speak of a graceful trio of carp. The outraged Emperor vows to let his dreams determine Chan Lo's punishment. Fortunately, he too dreams the soft, lazy sounds that inspired Chan Lo's masterpiece, whose beauty now overcomes the Emperor's anger. A wonderful read-aloud, with great sound effects, a thrice- repeated incantation, and the dramatic voices of the Emperor and his babbling advisors.
Yep, Laurence. 1993. The Shell Woman and the King: A Chinese Folktale. Dial Books for Young Readers
Good Wu marries a young woman who can change herself into a shell. A cruel ruler wishes to own her. In order to escape and save herself and her husband, she must perform three wonders. Ming-Yi's watercolor paintings give the reader a real feel for China.
Young, Ed. 1998. The Lost Horse: A Chinese Folktale. Silver Whistle.
In this retelling of a Chinese folktale, the wise man, Sai, conveys to others how what appears bad is often good, and what first seems good fortune can be bad. When his horse runs away, Sai tells the people who come to comfort him that it may not be a bad thing. His horse returns with a beautiful white mare. People come by to celebrate Sai's good fortune, but he is reluctant to rejoice. His forebodings are proven apt when his son is injured in a fall from the mare. As in Zen tales, the strength of this story is in its subtlety.
Religion
CHINESE RELIGION
Hoobler, Thomas and Dorothy. 1993. Confucianism (World Religions). Facts on File, Inc.
A straightforward review of Confucianism.
Wilker, Josh. 1999. Confucius: Philosopher and Teacher. Franklin Watts Publishing.
A disparate group of individuals are featured in this series of books, each beginning with an important moment in the Confucius’ life and then looking back at his childhood and forward to his important personal achievements.
Science
CHINESE SCIENCE TOPICS
Beshore, George W. 1998. Science in Ancient China (Science of the Past) Franklin Watts, Incorporated.
Surveys the achievements of the ancient Chinese in science, medicine, astronomy, and cosmology, and describes such innovations as rockets, wells, the compass, water wheels, and movable type.
Dramer, Kim. 2001. The Yellow River (Watts Library: The World of Water). Franklin Watts, Incorporated.
This straightforward study of the Yellow River includes the animals that live in the ecosystem, the geography of the region, and the people it supports.
Jiang Hong Chen. 2000. The Legend of the Kite: A Story of China. Soundprints Corp Audio.
Every spring the Festival of the Kite is celebrated in China. When a boy's kite flies away from him, his grandfather tells him the legend behind the celebration, encouraging the boy to build a new, more beautiful one.
Meister, Cari. 2001. The Yangtze. Abdo & Daughters
This straightforward study of the Yangste River includes the animals that live in the ecosystem, the geography of the region, and the people it supports.
Ross, Frank. 1990. Oracle Bones, Stars and Wheelbarrows: Ancient Chinese Science and Technology. Houghton Mifflin Company.
Discusses the achievements of the ancient Chinese in astronomy, medicine, science, and engineering.
Stone, Lynn M. 2000. Wildlife of China. The Rourke Book Company.
As the title suggests, a thorough investigation of the unique animals that live in this vast country.
Williams, Suzanne. 1997. Made in China: Ideas and Inventions from Ancient China (Dragon Books). Pacific View Press.
Colorfully illustrated book, which focuses on specific topics related to ancient Chinese culture, history, tradition, and invention. These topics, presented succinctly in one or two pages, include papermaking, agriculture, medicine, and astronomy.
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Picture Books:
Amoss, Berthe. Cajun Gingerbread Boy. MTC Press/More Than A Card, 1999.
A Children's Choice Award winner in 1996, this title retells the traditional gingerbread boy story reset in southwest Louisiana, using a gentle Cajun storytelling technique. It also is interactive as the child makes use of a die cut gingerbread boy which he/she passes through each page as he runs through the story and is outwitted by M'Sieur Cocodrie, the alligator
Amoss, Berthe. The Three Little Cajun Pigs. MTC Press/More Than A Card, 1999.
Poor Little Chubby, Pudgy & Cochon! That mean ol' alligator, M'Sieur Cocdrie, wants to gobble them up for his din-din! But, cher, he can huff and puff all he wants--you'll help the little Cajun pigs escape using Cochon's clever plan at the end of the book. Just move M'Sieur Cocdrie from the cover of the book and pass him through the slits in the pages until he gets what he deserves!
Amoss, Berthe. A Cajun Little Red Riding Hood. MTC Press/More Than A Card, 2000.
Katine is the Cajun Little Red Riding Hood and she's on her way to her grandmother, Mere's house. Into the swampy woods she goes while M'Sieur Cocodrie slithers through the swamp ahead of her. Katine is bringing Mere some pecans from a tree in her yard so that Mere can make pralines from her secret recipe. But M'sieur Cocodrie has other plans for dessert!
Amoss, Berthe. Delicious Dishes: Creole Cooking for Children. MTC Press/More Than A Card, 1991.
New Orleans is a city where north is south and east is west. Impossible? Not really because New Orleans is built on the banks of the mighty Mississippi and the streets wind and curve the way the river does. New Orleans has an even more mixed up way of cooking known as Creole. The French were the first European settlers to cook in New Orleans, and they borrowed spices and seasoning from their neighbors, the Choctaw Indians. Next came the Africans with their own herbs and vegetables and then the Spanish with their peppers and other secrets to add to the cook pot. When everything was mixed together, Creole cooking was born. The recipes are written for children, but the results will please the entire family. Recipes are for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and snacks and desserts. They include such Creole favorites as pan perdu, jambalaya, shrimp gumbo, pralines and pecan pie. A small mesh bag holds a miniature bottle of Tabasco for those who like it hot and a "king cake baby" to bake in the traditional Mardi Gras cake.
Bridges, Ruby. Through My Eyes. Scholastic Trade, 1999.
Ruby Bridges played a significant role in the history of civil rights. In 1961, as a tiny first-grader escorted by federal agents, she integrated an all-white school in New Orleans. This is Ruby's recollections of external and internal events. Powerful and powerfully moving.
Coles, Robert. The Story of Ruby Bridges. Scholastic Trade, 1995.
A Pulitzer Prize-winning author and a Coretta Scott King Award-winning illustrator bring to life the true story of an extraordinary six-year-old New Orleans girl who helped shape American history when she became the first African-American sent to first grade in an all white school. This moving picture book captures the courage of a little girl standing alone in the face of racism
Collins, Sheila Hebert. Cendrillon : A Cajun Cinderella . Pelican Publishing Company, 1998.
Cendrillon lives in New Orleans; the ball is held during Mardi Gras; and the prince is Ovey, a rich man's son who has been named King of Mardi Gras (Rex) and who is looking for a bride. The girl's carriage is a cushaw (squash), her horses are crevisses (crawfish), and her shoes are made of mother-of-pearl. Cajun phrases are inserted throughout the narrative with translations and pronunciation guides at the bottom of each page.
Couvillon, Alice. Mimi's First Mardi Gras. Pelican Publishing Company, 1992
Filled with descriptions and explanations of the many traditional aspects of Mardi Gras.
Doucet, Sharon Arms. Why Lapin's Ears Are Long: And Other Tales from the Louisiana Bayou. Orchard Books, 1997.
With cartoon-like illustrations that fill up and sometimes explode off the page, these three entertaining pourquoi folktales from Cajun country show rabbit in his glory as a trickster character. Compere Lapin may not be big or strong, but he is definitely clever enough to trick others into giving him what he wants. Being good at being bad is what he enjoys most. The antics of Doucet's Louisiana rabbit parallel those of both Br’er Rabbit of the American South and Sungura of East Africa, but children may also have fun comparing Lapin's tricks to the adventures of their personal trickster favorites, such as Anansi, the coyote, and Kancil the Malaysian mouse deer. The author includes a glossary and the names of five collectors of south Louisiana's folktales. Karen Morgan from Booklist
Emkey, Mary. Alex the Alligator . Dorrance Publishing Company, 1999.
Morris, Joshua. Polly Pelican and her Big Beak: Snappy Fun Books. Readers Digest, 1998.
Young readers will get a kick out of snapping open the mouth of the plastic animal head attached to each book, then letting it close with a SNAP! In Polly Pelican and her Big Beak, Polly Pelican doesn't like her big beak until she realizes it can accomplish feats that help her friends. Children can SNIP-SNAP along with the story and discover how Polly becomes a heroine of the lakeside!
Orgill, Roxanne. If I Only Had a Horn: Young Louis Armstrong. Houghton Mifflin Company, 1997.
The story of how Louis Armstrong got his first horn. As Orgill tells it in her first book for children, Armstrong himself gave conflicting accounts of how he came by his first horn; here, his first instrument was actually a bugle that he played in reform school, where he was sent after being arrested for shooting a .38 in the street on New Year's Eve. Later the school's band director entrusted him with a battered cornet, and Louis went on to lead the band in a triumphant parade through his old New Orleans neighborhood. The dark, edgy, mixed-media paintings, with lurid yellow highlights, give an almost palpable sense of the rough poverty and swirling nightlife of Armstrong's early environment.
Rice, James. Gaston Goes to Mardi Gras . Pelican Publishing Company, 2000.
Schroeder, Alan. Satchmo's Blues. 1996.
Shaik, Fatima. The Jazz of Our Street . 1998.
New Orleans, the birthplace of jazz, is the setting for this joyful book celebrating jazz parades and their traditions. The lyrical text shows how this quintessentially American musical form weaves stories through its rhythms and sounds.
Thomassie, Tynia. Feliciana Feydra Leroux: A Cajun Tall Tale. Little Brown and Company.
Feliciana, a spunky, Cajun girl, decides to go alligator hunting with her Grampa Baby, even though he forbids her. Told in a lilting Cajun dialect, this enjoyable original tale includes a glossary and a brief history of the Cajun people.
Thomassie, Tynia . Feliciana Meets D'Loup Garou: A Cajun Tall Tale. Little Brown and Company, 1998.
Legend has it that d'Loup Garou (pronounced loo-guROO) is a werewolf that lives deep in the swamps of Louisiana and comes out when the moon is full. His favorite meal is a naughty girl or a sassy boy, and hooo -- Feliciana's been a BEAST today! Read this hysterical tale about a little girl who comes to term with her own demons with the help of a swamp monster.
Thomassie, Tynia. Cajun Through and Through. Little Brown and Company, 2000.
Ti-Boy and Baptiste are best friends and brothers growing up "south of south" in the bayou. The boys love being Cajun and love being wild and adventurous. When Maman tells them Cousin Remington from the big city is coming for a visit, they are not happy. Remington is so "un-Cajun" that jambalaya is too spicy for him. The boys try to be friendly, but when Remington loses Ti-Boy's new fishin' rod, they almost give up. Eventually, the boys discover that Remington actually has a little Cajun in him after all, and the true meaning of family is revealed. Marta Segal
Books for Older Readers:
Holt, Kimberly Willis. My Louisiana Sky. Yearling Books, 2000.
Set in the South of the 1950s, this tender coming-of-age novel explores a 12-year-old girl's struggle to accept her grandmother's death, her mentally deficient parents, and the changing world around her. "My Louisiana Sky" is filled with unforgettable characters and the importance of family and home.
MacBride, Rogre Lea. On the Banks of the Bayou . HarperCollins Juvenile Books, 1998.
When Rose decides to leave Rocky Ridge Farm to finish high school and live with her Aunt Eliza Jane in Louisiana, a new, exciting world opens up before her eyes. Sixteen and in a city brimming with excitement and adventure, Rose begins to change from a country girl into an independent young woman with her own ideas, ambitions and dreams. It's a new world for Rose in On The Banks of the Bayou, the seventh book in the Rose Years series.
Old, Wendie C. Louis Armstrong: King of Jazz. Enslow Publishers Inc., 1998.
Old begins with Armstrong's somewhat turbulent youth in New Orleans, during which an incident with a gun landed him in the Colored Waifs' Home for Boys. There he met a music teacher who gave him the chance to play in a band, an event that changed his life. Although this is not an extensive biography, it describes the difficulties he experienced. The book brings the subject alive with insightful and revealing quotes. Crisp black-and-white photos as well as a clean design make this title eye-catching and highly readable.-Kristen Oravec, School Library Journal
Viviano, Christy. Haunted Louisiana: True Tales of Ghosts and Other Unearthly Creatures. Tree House Press, Inc
A nice glimpse into Louisiana heritage with lots of shivers.
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Austin, Patricia. "Whitney Stewart, Biographer." Teaching and Learning Literature. September/October, 1996. An extensive article about how Whitney Stewart researches and writes nonfiction for children.
Stewart, Whitney.
Mao Zedong . Minneapolis: Lerner Publications, 2006.
Becoming Buddha. California: Heian, 2005
Blues Across the Bay. New York : Four Seasons Publishing, 2001.
Jammin' on the Avenue. New York : Four Season Publishing, 2001.
Deng Xiaoping: Leader in a Changing China. Minneapolis : Lerner Publications, 2001.
"Riding on a Keyboard." December, 2000.
"Unanswered" BlueEar.com, February 20, 2000.
" Whispering in Tibet." BlueEar.com, 1998.
Aung San Suu Kyi: Fearless Voice of Burma . Minneapolis: Lerner Publications, 1997.
"Finding my Niche." In Ten Steps to Publishing Children’s Books by Berthe Amoss and Eric Suben. Writer’s Digest Books, 1997.
The 14th Dalai Lama: Spiritual Leader of Tibet. Minneapolis: Lerner Publications, 1996.
Sir Edmund Hillary: To Everest and Beyond. Minneapolis : Lerner Publications, 1996 .
"Carry Kindness." Highlights for Children.
"Butter Tea and Momos." Highlights for Children. July-August 1992, pg. 36- 37.
To the Lion Throne: The Story of the 14th Dalai Lama . Ithaca, NY: Snow Lion Publications, 1990.
Articles about Whitney Stewart's book Aung San Suu Kyi: Fearless Voice of Burma:
Bloom, Meredith. "Biographer Stewart to discuss works at bookstore."
Manchester Journal ( New Hampshire). 17 July, 1997.
Casey, Ethan. "The lady is a paradox." 13 April, 1997.
Faciane, Valerie. "Nobel winner fields questions." The Times-Picayune ( New Orleans, Louisiana). 23 May, 1996
Kohlepp, Peg. "Wonder woman." Times-Picayune ( New Orleans, Louisiana). 2 March, 1997.
Soong, Tina. "Writer visits Nobel winner." Times-Picayune ( New Orleans, Louisiana). 25 January, 1996.
Articles about Whitney Stewart's book The 14th Dalai Lama: Spiritual Leader of Tibet:
Berman, Matt. "Good karma." The Times-Picayune ( New Orleans, LA). 25 February, 1996.
Articles about Whitney Stewart's book Sir Edmund Hillary: To Everest and Beyond:
Kohlepp, Peg. "'Miracles' worker." Times-Picayune ( New Orleans, Louisiana). 12 May, 1996.
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Ancient Chinese History
Cheng-An Chiang. 1998. Empress of China, Wu Ze Tian. Victory Press.
The tale of the beautiful nun turned Empress, Wu Ze Tian. She held power for almost half a century during the Tang Dynasty (618- 907 AD), a period of prosperity and cultural achievement in China. She was the only female emperor in more than 5,000 years of Chinese history.
Cheng an Jiang. 1997. Legend of Mu Lan: A Heroine of Ancient China. Victory Press.
In ancient, war-torn China, hundreds and hundreds of men were called upon to defend their homeland. Unknown to all, there stood one female among the soldiers. Disguised as her brother, in order to take her father's place in the army, heroine Mu Lan bravely defends her country with superior martial arts.
Cotterell, Arthur. 2000. Eyewitness: Ancient China. New York: DK Publishing.
A spectacular and informative guide to the history of the great Chinese empire and the customs and traditions of its people. Stunning real-life photographs and lifelike models offer a unique "eyewitness" view of life in imperial China, from its earliest beginnings in the Bronze Age to its final days in the early years of the 20th century. See the stunning bronze work of the ancient Chinese, an early irrigation machine, a set of antique acupuncture needles, the beautiful implements used for Chinese calligraphy. Learn why the First Emperor created the terra-cotta army, what kinds of goods were carried along the Silk Route, who invented paper, how a Chinese house was constructed, why tombs were filled with pottery figures, and what a civil servant's job entailed. Discover why emperors were known as Sons of Heaven, what kinds of weapons were used in early battles, why families worshiped their ancestors, how fishermen used bivas to catch fish, and much, much more.
Fisher, Leonard Everett. 1995. The Great Wall of China. New York: Aladdin Paperbacks.
A brief history of the Great Wall of China, begun about 2,200 years ago to keep out Mongol invaders.
Hall, Eleanor J. 2000. Ancient Chinese Dynasties (World History Series). Lucent Books
Grade 6 and up—In clear and understandable language, Hall dispels myths and carefully sorts reality from fiction concerning the earliest of the myriad Chinese dynasties. An introductory time line, beginning with 2000 B.C. and progressing to A.D. 618, serves as a valuable reference point in support of the succeeding chapters. The text delves into various aspects of everyday life during the specific eras, as well as that of culture and customs.
Simpson, Judith. 1996. Ancient China (Nature Company Discoveries). New York: Time Life.
A brief overview of China's dynasties, beliefs, lifestyles, and arts through realistic artwork and numerous color photographs. A time line is included.
(Bibliography compiled by Chelle Rudelson)
Modern Chinese History
MODERN CHINA
Note: These books are written to a middle/upper school audience. Some of the materials are very serious and graphic, as was this period of Chinese history. Not only is the subject matter quite sophisticated, the language used by the authors was clearly meant for older readers.
Allan, Tony. 2001. The Long March: The Making of Communist China (Point of Impact). Heinemann Library.
An excellent, in-depth account of Mao's Long March and the creation of the People's Republic.
Da Chen. 2001. China's Son: Growing Up in the Cultural Revolution. Delacorte Press.
Born in 1962 in southern China, Da Chen had monumental hurdles to overcome before he could even walk or talk. Mao Zedong's Cultural Revolution was in full swing, and the descendents of landlords, who were despised, were routinely stripped of their wealth, beaten, humiliated, and sent off to labor camps. Da Chen, the grandson of a landlord, lives several parallel lives: he excels in school but then gives up studying in the face of unbearable pressure and harassment from teachers, students, and administrators. He is a self-taught musician but also a member of a gang of toughs. His siblings, banned from school, work from before sunrise to sunset in the muddy, backbreaking rice fields. Eventually, Da makes a break for a new life and goes to college.
Fritz, Jean. 1988. China's Long March: 6000 Miles of Danger. Putnam Publishing Group Juvenile.
In 1986, Jean Fritz went to China and talked to survivors of the Long March. It is from their recollections and her own broad, personal knowledge of Chinese history that she has written one of the most compelling accounts of the incredible 6,000 mile journey across China made by the Communist Army in 1934 and 1935.
Jiang, Jig-Li. 1997. Red Scarf Girl: A Memoir of the Cultural Revolution. New York: HarperCollins Juvenile Books.
Jill Jiang was twelve years old in 1966, the year that Chairman Mao launched the Cultural Revolution in China. An outstanding student and much-admired leader of her class, Ji-li seemed poised for a shining future. But all that changed with the advent of the Cultural Revolution, when intelligence became a crime and a wealthy family background invited persecution or worse. For the next three years Ji-li and her family were humiliated and reviled by their former friends, neighbors, and colleagues and lived in constant terror of attack. At last, with the detention of her father, Ji-li was faced with the most dreadful decision of her young life: denounce him and break with her family, or refuse to testify against him and sacrifice her future in her beloved Communist Party.
Kite, Lorien. 2000. The Chinese (We Came to North America). Crabtree Publications.
An account of early Chinese immigrants coming to North America working in gold mines, on farms, and on the railroads. This fascinating account of their early contributions and the prejudice they faced is highlighted with full-color artwork and eyewitness accounts. Detailed maps show where they settled and how their traditions are still celebrated today.
Kort, Michael G. 1995. China Under Communism. Millbrook Press.
A detailed, yet concise history of the Communist movement in China, starting with a brief look at the empire, then guiding readers through the republic, socialist China, and Mao's Great Leap Forward and Cultural Revolution, ending with the rise to power of Deng Xiaoping. The subject matter is difficult and will be best for advanced readers. Great pictures, excellent index, a helpful glossary, and a solid suggested reading list. A good in-a-nutshell overview of the subject.
Namioka, Lensey. 1999. Ties That Bind, Ties That Break: A Novel. Delacorte Press.
Third Sister in the Tao family, Ailin has watched her two older sisters go through the painful process of having their feet bound. In China in 1911, all the women of good families follow this ancient tradition. But Ailin loves to run away from her governess and play games with her male cousins. Knowing she will never run again once her feet are bound, Ailin rebels and refuses to follow this torturous tradition. As a result, however, the family of her intended husband breaks their marriage agreement. And as she enters adolescence, Ailin finds that her family is no longer willing to support her. Chinese society leaves few options for a single woman of good family, but with a bold conviction and an indomitable spirit, Ailin is determined to forge her own destiny. Her story is a tribute to all those women whose courage created new options for the generations who came after them.
Pietrusza, David. 1997. The Chinese Cultural Revolution. Lucent Books
A complete and evenhanded account of the "Great Proletarian Cultural Revolution." Begins with a brief summary of Chinese history since the fall of the last emperor in 1911, and continues on with the early history of the Chinese Communist party and the People's Republic, laying the background for the epic struggle by Mao Zedong to consolidate his power. Subsequent chapters detail the rise of the Red Guards, the young people who ran amok, and Mao's use of the army to get them back under control. Mao's death, Deng Xiaoping's rise to power, and the 1989 demonstration at Tiananmen Square are covered.
Zhang, Song Nan. 1995. A Little Tiger in the Chinese Night: An Autobiography in Art. Tundra Books.
An artist (b. 1942) who did his best to remain a loyal Chinese citizen through the Cultural Revolution—but finally escaped to Canada in 1989—now shares his story. Zhang's straightforward narrative, powerful in its honesty, is much enriched by his detailed art. Zhang's father, a Communist official early on, was later declared suspect and his family was forcibly scattered. Meanwhile, the boy received an art education, but the regime's demands left him little time to paint. Selling four paintings to an American enabled him to go to Canada, where, in the aftermath of Tiananmen Square, he received sanctuary. His wife and sons were able to join him in the United States. His paintings and sketches enhance Zhang’s fascinating account of his grueling experience .
Modern Chinese Culture
CHINESE CULTURE
Demi. 1998. Happy New Year! Kung-Hsi Fa-Ts'Ai. Crown Publishing.
Firecrackers, feasts, dragon dances! These are just a few of the customs included in Demi's book, Happy New Year! Kung-Hsi Fa-Ts'ai. The activities and traditions that make up the Chinese New Year festivities are portrayed in beautiful, full-color detail. Each spread contains a brief explanation of the significance of each custom and how it fits into the month-long celebration.
Dramer, Kim. 1999. People's Republic of China. Children's Press.
An attractive, insightful book with a broad scope. Chapters cover China's global importance, geography, plants and wildlife, history, government, food and transportation, people and language, religion, the arts, and children. Full-color photographs appear throughout the text and a variety of color maps provide orientation and clarification. A "To Find Out More" section includes nonfiction books, Websites, and organizations and embassies.
Johnson, Anne Akrs. 1997. Chinese Jump Rope. Klutz, Inc
A complete, wire-bound guide to Chinese jump rope includes illustrated instructions for a wide variety of popular games, directions for creating a rope of one's own, and two sturdy elastic jump ropes.
Kalman, Bobbie. 2000. China: The Culture (The Lands, Peoples, and the Cultures Series). Crabtree Publications.
A celebration of the achievements of China's 4000-year-old civilization. This book traces the origins of New China's celebrations back to its ancient past
Krach, Maywan Shen. 2000. D Is for Doufu: An Alphabet Book of Chinese Culture. Shen's Books.
Carefully selected Chinese words and phrases take you on a journey through Chinese history and through the lives and customs of its people. The translations of 23 phrases (46 characters) are included in this beautifully illustrated book that explores the richness of the Chinese culture. Each phrase is introduced by a written image and an explanation of the spoken Mandarin language, as well as a picture representing the concept. Some of these Chinese words have been borrowed and shared by other people.
Shang, Hao Yu. 2000. A Time of Golden Dragons. Tundra Books.
An explanation of the Chinese 12-year zodiac, symbolized by animals such as the rat and the dragon. As well as the less familiar cycle, approximately two years in length, which moves through the elements of wood, fire, earth, metal (gold), and water. This picture book for older children offers facts about dragon origins, dragon boat races, dragon homes, and other enticing dragon tidbits as it introduces the mythical creature as viewed through Asian cultures.
Stone, Lynn M. 2000. The Provinces of China. The Rourke Book Company, Inc.
China is home to more than one hundred minority groups. This book discusses China’s minority people and diverse provinces.
Wang, Tao. 2000. Exploration into China. Chelsea House Publishing.
Acquaints readers with the varied people of China. Stefoff has an impressive command of the facts, organizing them into smooth chapters on history, economy, culture, and government. Plenty of photos, a time line, and maps .
Folklore
CHINESE FOLKLORE
OLDER READERS:
Birch, Cyril. 2001. Tales from China. Oxford University Press Children’s Books.
Excellent collection of Chinese folktales.
Roberts, Moss. 1980. Chinese Fairy Tales and Fantasies. Random House
This fresh and elegant translation of 100 tales from 25 centuries of Chinese literature opens up a magical world far from our customary haunts. Illustrated with woodcuts.
PICTURE BOOKS:
Casanova, Mary. 2000. The Hunter: A Chinese Folktale. Atheneum
Hai Li Bu is a good hunter, but not even he can find enough food for his village when the drought comes. The people grow thin and weak, the children rarely laugh. They begin to argue and stop listening to one another. Out on a hunt one day, Hai Li Bu saves a small snake from the beak of a crane. He is surprised to learn that he has rescued the daughter of the Dragon King of the Sea. The Dragon King offers Hai Li Bu the reward of his choice. Hai Li Bu asks only to know the language of animals. Then he can be a better hunter for his village. His wish is granted with a provision: He must never reveal the secret of his gift to anyone. Hai Li Bu's people are saved from famine, but when he hears from the animals that a flood is coming that will destroy everything in his village, the people do not listen to him. "You ask us to leave our homes. How can we know what you say is true?" a village elder asks him. Now Hai Li Bu is faced with a terrible choice: to let the people of his village die in the flood or to reveal his secret, knowing the dire consequences for himself.
Ching, Simon. The Cricket's Cage: A Chinese Folktale
Magic plays a role in this old Chinese folktale about a cricket (a Chinese omen of good luck) that brings more than simple good fortune to a young and kindly carpenter. The carpenter's cricket uses his antennae to draw the design for the royal watchtowers of the Forbidden City. The design, which has previously eluded human architects and builders, pleases the emperor and saves the royal minister, the master builder, and the carpenter from execution. Youngsters will find the story's conflict compelling enough to sort through the parade of characters quickly introduced at the tale's beginning. The artwork, which utilizes Chinese character writing, bright colors, and traditional designs, adds a feel of authenticity to the folktale. Czernecki positions text and illustrations over borders of bright yellow embroidered dragon motifs. An author's note includes more information and an English translation of a poem.
Demi. The Magic Tapestry: A Chinese Folktale
In this retelling of a traditional Chinese folktale, an impoverished widow with an extraordinary talent for weaving works day and night for three years to finish her most beautiful tapestry to date. Her two older sons, tired of her preoccupation with weaving, begin quarreling and lose faith in their mother. Only her youngest son understands her need, and he alone continues working to support his family. When the tapestry is finally complete, it seems to breathe with life, "Flowers shimmered with threads of brilliant sunlight and little animals danced magically throughout the woven pattern." While the two older sons argue about who will sell this work of art, a great wind blows it out the door and into the eastern sky. Each son is sent out to find the tapestry and bring it home. The two older sons take the easy way out and accept a bribe of valuable jewels, then flee to the city, never to be seen again. As the youngest son sets out he promises to return with the tapestry. When he meets the Fierce Guardian, he bravely faces the challenges—the Mountain of Fire and the Sea of Ice—and upon reaching his destination he finds beautiful fairy princesses weaving copies of his mother's prized possession.
Heyer, Marilee. 1989. The Weaving of a Dream: A Chinese Folktale. Viking Press.
Heyer retells an engrossing Chinese folktale about an old woman who weaves exquisite brocades. Full-color illustrations
Hume, Lotta Carswell. 2001. Favorite Children's Stories From China and Tibet. Tuttle Publishing
Favorite Children's Stories from China and Tibet is a delightful collection of 19 fascinating, time-honored tales that have captivated Chinese and Tibetan families for centuries. From animals that speak and play tricks on each other to humans who perform magic, each story allows children to peek into the legends of two distant and ancient lands. This wonderful collection includes: The Wishing Cup, A Hungry Wolf, The Tower that Reached from Earth to Heaven, A Chinese Cinderella, and many more Chinese and Tibetan favorites.
Mathews, Judith. 1993. Two of Everything: A Chinese Folktale. Albert Whitman & Co.
Mr. and Mrs. Haktak find a magic pot that makes a copy of everything that is put inside. The Haktaks are delighted until Mrs. Haktak falls into the pot, and the trouble begins. .
Yacowitz, Caryn. The Jade Stone: A Chinese Folktale
When the Emperor of China is given a perfect piece of jade, he orders master carver Chan Lo to form from it ``a dragon of wind and fire.'' But Chan Lo can carve only what he hears in the stone, and the gentle, playful sounds emanating from this noble piece speak of a graceful trio of carp. The outraged Emperor vows to let his dreams determine Chan Lo's punishment. Fortunately, he too dreams the soft, lazy sounds that inspired Chan Lo's masterpiece, whose beauty now overcomes the Emperor's anger. A wonderful read-aloud, with great sound effects, a thrice- repeated incantation, and the dramatic voices of the Emperor and his babbling advisors.
Yep, Laurence. 1993. The Shell Woman and the King: A Chinese Folktale. Dial Books for Young Readers
Good Wu marries a young woman who can change herself into a shell. A cruel ruler wishes to own her. In order to escape and save herself and her husband, she must perform three wonders. Ming-Yi's watercolor paintings give the reader a real feel for China.
Young, Ed. 1998. The Lost Horse: A Chinese Folktale. Silver Whistle.
In this retelling of a Chinese folktale, the wise man, Sai, conveys to others how what appears bad is often good, and what first seems good fortune can be bad. When his horse runs away, Sai tells the people who come to comfort him that it may not be a bad thing. His horse returns with a beautiful white mare. People come by to celebrate Sai's good fortune, but he is reluctant to rejoice. His forebodings are proven apt when his son is injured in a fall from the mare. As in Zen tales, the strength of this story is in its subtlety.
Religion
CHINESE RELIGION
Hoobler, Thomas and Dorothy. 1993. Confucianism (World Religions). Facts on File, Inc.
A straightforward review of Confucianism.
Wilker, Josh. 1999. Confucius: Philosopher and Teacher. Franklin Watts Publishing.
A disparate group of individuals are featured in this series of books, each beginning with an important moment in the Confucius’ life and then looking back at his childhood and forward to his important personal achievements.
Science
CHINESE SCIENCE TOPICS
Beshore, George W. 1998. Science in Ancient China (Science of the Past) Franklin Watts, Incorporated.
Surveys the achievements of the ancient Chinese in science, medicine, astronomy, and cosmology, and describes such innovations as rockets, wells, the compass, water wheels, and movable type.
Dramer, Kim. 2001. The Yellow River (Watts Library: The World of Water). Franklin Watts, Incorporated.
This straightforward study of the Yellow River includes the animals that live in the ecosystem, the geography of the region, and the people it supports.
Jiang Hong Chen. 2000. The Legend of the Kite: A Story of China. Soundprints Corp Audio.
Every spring the Festival of the Kite is celebrated in China. When a boy's kite flies away from him, his grandfather tells him the legend behind the celebration, encouraging the boy to build a new, more beautiful one.
Meister, Cari. 2001. The Yangtze. Abdo & Daughters
This straightforward study of the Yangste River includes the animals that live in the ecosystem, the geography of the region, and the people it supports.
Ross, Frank. 1990. Oracle Bones, Stars and Wheelbarrows: Ancient Chinese Science and Technology. Houghton Mifflin Company.
Discusses the achievements of the ancient Chinese in astronomy, medicine, science, and engineering.
Stone, Lynn M. 2000. Wildlife of China. The Rourke Book Company.
As the title suggests, a thorough investigation of the unique animals that live in this vast country.
Williams, Suzanne. 1997. Made in China: Ideas and Inventions from Ancient China (Dragon Books). Pacific View Press.
Colorfully illustrated book, which focuses on specific topics related to ancient Chinese culture, history, tradition, and invention. These topics, presented succinctly in one or two pages, include papermaking, agriculture, medicine, and astronomy.
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