I Am Golden
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5.0 • 1 Rating
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- $10.99
Publisher Description
An Instant New York Times Bestseller!
This joyful and lyrical picture book from New York Times bestselling author Eva Chen and illustrator Sophie Diao is a moving ode to the immigrant experience, as well as a manifesto of self-love for Chinese American children.
What do you see when you look in the mirror, Mei? Do you see beauty?
We see eyes that point toward the sun, that give us the warmth and joy of a thousand rays when you smile. We see hair as inky black and smooth as a peaceful night sky. We see skin brushed with gold.
Praise for I Am Golden:
"[A] richly metaphoric celebration of Chinese American identity ... Luminous, gently textured digital art by Diao includes thoughtful, recognizably Chinese cues that add further dimension ... A loving, affecting tribute to how children of immigrants can serve as bridges and torchbearers for their communities." —Publishers Weekly, starred review
"From the outset, this gorgeous picture book exudes joy and celebration of identity. Through dazzling illustrations, Diao brings to exuberant life best-selling Chinese American author Chen’s message of finding love and power in one’s differences. ... This powerful and uplifting story captures [Chinese] American joy and is a definite must-read." —Booklist, starred review
PUBLISHERS WEEKLY
In this richly metaphoric celebration of Chinese American identity, Chen (Roxy the Last Unisaurus Rex) offers a love letter from two parents to their child Mei: "You carry a golden flame... and it's always with you." Emigrating from China to New York City—signified by Lady Liberty—Mei's parents adjust with Mei's help, as displayed in a particularly striking spread: "In this upside-down world, clever child, you have become our teacher and translator," the text reads, as the neon billboards of Times Square reflect a clear, star-studded night sky above the family's home in China. Subsequent pages acknowledge that Mei may face othering ("People tell you that you're different and you can't be one of them"), before lyrical, sensorial spreads affirm power in difference: "You are the lotus flower unfurling—triumphant and bright—in the darkest water.... Your voice is the call of the magpie, joyful and unapologetic." Luminous, gently textured digital art by Diao (Sarah and the Big Wave) includes thoughtful, recognizably Chinese cues that add further dimension, including a jade necklace and a good fortune–signifying upside-down Fú character. A loving, affecting tribute to how children of immigrants can serve as bridges and torchbearers for their communities. Back matter includes author's and illustrator's notes. Ages 4–6.
