Crouching Tiger
What’s inside...
A Chinese-American boy gains a new understanding of his Chinese grandfather in this celebratory story of family, martial arts, and the Chinese New Year. Vinson is very excited when his grandfather comes from China for a visit. When Grandpa practices tai chi in the garden, Vinson asks to learn, hoping it will be like kung fu, full of kicks and punches. But tai chi’s meditative postures are slow and still, and Vinson quickly gets bored. He can’t understand why Grandpa insists on calling him by his Chinese name, Ming Da, or why he has to wear a traditional Chinese jacket to the Chinese New Year parade. As the parade assembles, however, he notices the great respect given to his grandfather and the lion dancers under his training. And when Vinson is offered a role in the parade, he realizes that being part Chinese can be pretty cool—and is ready to start learning from his grandpa’s martial-arts mastery in earnest.
Discussion points
What do you think Vinson learned from his grandfather during their Tai Chi practice?
How did Vinson feel when he discovered his family's traditions, and why do you think those feelings changed throughout the story?
Why is it important to respect and learn about different cultures, including our own?
How can practicing patience and discipline, like in Tai Chi, help us in our daily lives?
What are some traditions in our family that you feel proud of or enjoy?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts about the story's cultural and generational themes. Validate their feelings and share your own family experiences and traditions. Highlight the importance of respect and understanding of different cultures to promote empathy and self-awareness. Discuss the benefits of patience and discipline, just as Vinson learns through Tai Chi, and explore how these qualities can be applied in your child’s life.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Respect for cultural heritage
Explanation: In 'Crouching Tiger', the young protagonist learns about traditional Chinese martial arts and customs from his grandfather, embracing his cultural roots.
Real-World Application: Children can be encouraged to explore and take pride in their own family histories and cultural backgrounds, fostering a sense of identity and respect for diversity.
Example Lesson: Patience and perseverance
Explanation: Through practicing Tai Chi, the protagonist learns the value of slow, deliberate movements and the importance of patience, even when progress seems slow.
Real-World Application: This lesson applies to schoolwork and hobbies where consistent effort and patience are required to improve and succeed.
Example Lesson: Importance of bonding with elders
Explanation: The story shows a strengthening bond between the boy and his grandfather as they share time practicing Tai Chi and discussing their heritage.
Real-World Application: Children can learn the importance of spending quality time with grandparents or elderly people, gaining wisdom and learning from their experiences.
Example Lesson: Self-discipline and focus
Explanation: The protagonist's journey in learning Tai Chi highlights the discipline needed to master difficult tasks and the focus required to maintain practice.
Real-World Application: This can teach children the need for self-discipline and focus in accomplishing any task, whether it’s in academic settings or personal projects.