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“In this warm story of inter-generational love, a girl re-creates a piece of her grandmother’s childhood home in China. This portrait of a caring family resonates with scenes of sharing and togetherness. The rich golds, greens, and browns of the oil paintings add to the spirit of warmth and security. Use this book in multicultural and family story programs.”

—School Library Journal

“Cheng’s story of intergenerational connection is a sweet one… a good choice for older storytime audiences or collections in need of culturally different stories.”

—Kirkus Reviews

“The telling is direct, and the message about bringing happiness to those one loves is clear. Chang’s artwork conveys both the action and the deep familial love without ambiguity… Best for larger libraries or ones with immigrant populations that can really appreciate ties to a faraway place.”

—Booklist

Goldfish and Chrysanthemums

Written by Andrea Cheng
Illustrated by Michelle Chang
Published by Lee & Low Books

A Chinese American girl helps preserve her grandmother’s childhood memories of China by creating a special garden for her in America.

Nancy is helping Ni Ni (Grandma) in the kitchen when a letter arrives from China. Ni Ni grows sad when she reads that her childhood home is being torn down, along with the chrysanthemum-filled garden and fish pond she has always loved.

After Nancy wins two goldfish at the summer fair, she comes up with an idea to keep Ni Ni’s memories of the garden alive. Nancy gets to work the very next morning, and as the surprise takes shape, the familiar beauty of home brings the entire family together.

Primary ISBN:
Publication Date: April 2003
Available As: Paperback
Picture Book , Age 06 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: 1st Generation

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Teacher’s Guide

Source: Lee & Low Books