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“Thai Chang’s story is a reminder of the incredible trajectory of a single life; a refugee boy playing among trash in a makeshift camp in a buddhist temple in Thailand, Chang becomes a program exhibitor for the Science Museum of Minnesota. Khou Vue’s artistry facilitates the unfolding of a narrative that is direct and compelling.”

– Kao Kalia Yang, author of The Most Beautiful Thing & The Rock In My Throat

 

Tinkering Towards My Spark (Our Stories Carried Us Here)

Written by Thai Chang
Illustrated by Khou Vue
Published by Green Card Voices

The fourth volume in the unique Our Stories Carried Us Here series of bilingual graphic memoirs written and illustrated for young readers, ages 8-13, Tinkering Towards My Spark follows Thai Chang from the mountains of Thailand to classrooms in Minnesota.

Thai grew up in a refugee camp in Thailand and knew at a young age that he wanted science and technology to be an important part of his life. Thai explored environments and tinkered with gadgets until he found his spark inspiring and educating others. After moving to the US at age 13, Thai worked hard to learn English and build a career in STEM with the help of those around him.

Thai’s story is beautifully told in English and Hmong, illustrated by Hmong-American illustrator Khou Vue.

Primary ISBN: 9781732790698
Publication Date: September 2024
Available As: Hardcover
Middle Grade, Graphic Memoir, Age 08 or older

Community Represented:

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

Setting: Thailand, United States (St. Paul MN)

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Refugee, Refugee Camp

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

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Source: Green Card Voices