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“Missing her grandmother, a young Chinese American girl finds comfort in a museum. For Emmy, ‘museums have always been a special place for Nainai and me, ‘ and all summer they explored them together during Nainai’s visit. Already missing their trips and meals of dumplings, Nainai gives Emmy a blue blanket made up of mementos before returning to China. The differing textiles and patterns are beautifully rendered in layered, uneven strokes of color….Wong provides a warm, textured palette with thick black lines to describe both simply drawn figures and elaborate ornamentation….A multilayered, emotional tale.”

Kirkus Reviews

Piece by Piece

Written by Susan Tan
Illustrated by Justine Wong
Published by Peabody Essex Museum

Emmy loses her beloved blanket, made especially for her by her Nainai, on a trip to the Peabody Essex Museum. Looking high and low, she winds up on a magical journey of discovery and wonder.

Exploring the museum’s Chinese house, Yin Yu Tang, she finds a place reminiscent of her grandmother and their special bond. But will she find her blanket before it’s too late? Remembering Nainai’s wisdom, she has not only good luck but the love of her family, too.

With stirring words by author Susan Tan and luminous scenes by debut illustrator Justine Wong, this heartwarming picture book will be enjoyed by kids and collectors alike.

Primary ISBN: 9780875772394
Publication Date: November 2019
Available As: Hardcover
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , ,

Setting: United States (Massachusetts)

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

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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