Shu-Li and Tamara [Paperback]

Paul Yee (Author), Shaoli Wang (Illustrator)

Book Description

Publication Date: April 1, 2008 | Grade Level: 1 and up

This contemporary story of the true friendship between two girls is set in Vancouver's Commercial Drive neighborhood. Shu-Li's parents run a local Chinese deli and much of the story revolves around food. There is a helpful compendium of recipes at the end of the book for kids to try out. Beautifully illustrated throughout with line drawings.

Paul Yee is the recipient of the Governor General's Award for Ghost Train and the City of Vancouver Book Award for Saltwater City. He has authored numerous books for young people, including The Jade Necklace and The Bone Collector's Son. Paul is a leading chronicler of the Chinese immigration experience in Canada.

Shaoli Wang is the talented illustrator of the BC Book Prizes short-listed picturebook Bamboo.

Editorial Reviews

From School Library Journal

Grade 2–4—In this simple, satisfying chapter book, fourth-grader Shu-Li, the daughter of Chinese immigrants, is adjusting to her life in Vancouver. She helps in her parents' restaurant and is embarrassed when her mother speaks English incorrectly in front of the popular girls from school. Shu-Li finally feels as if she's found the friend she's been waiting for when Tamara joins the class and the girls work on a project together. Then money disappears from the classroom and a rumor spreads that Tamara is the thief, leaving Shu-Li to decide whom she believes. Black-and-white pencil illustrations display a multicultural cast. Though Canadian elements might be slightly confusing for American children, this friendship book has an amiable tone, readable dialogue, and a believable plot that addresses the difficulty of fitting into a new community.—Teri Markson, Los Angeles Public Library
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From Booklist

Shu-Li, whose Chinese family immigrated to Canada, is thrilled when she finally makes a good friend: Tamara, who is in her fourth-grade class. When Joey, another classmate, spreads a rumor that Tamara has stolen money and the tale reaches Shu-Li’s father’s ears, he warns his daughter to be careful. The moment of truth comes at the school fair, when $20 goes missing from the class bake-sale funds. Joey accuses Tamara, but Shu-Li asks the right question to resolve the matter. The story, which takes place in a multicultural Vancouver community, balances immigrant issues and cultural differences with the broader themes of friendship and loyalty. Recipes for cookies from three culinary traditions are appended. With at least one stylized drawing on every spread, this sturdy paperback is an attractive choice for children starting to read chapter books. Yee received Canada’s prestigious Governor General’s Award for Children’s Literature for Ghost Train (1996). Grades 2-4. --Carolyn Phelan

See all Editorial Reviews

Product Details

• Paperback: 64 pages
• Publisher: Tradewind Books; CHILDF edition (April 1, 2008)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 1896580939
• ISBN-13: 978-1896580937
• Product Dimensions: 8.8 x 6 x 0.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 4.8 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #775,861 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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