Gai See: What You Can See in Chinatown
What’s inside...
Take a charming tour of Chinatown and explore the vibrant street market known as 'gai see' in Cantonese, where vendors sell a variety of goods from open-air stalls, pushcarts, and stores. Follow a curious little boy as he shops with his family through all the seasons, discovering special treasures such as noodles, dragon fruit, chocolate coins, and firecrackers for Chinese New Year. Experience the magic and vibrant culture of Chinatown through a delightful and memorable stroll.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-8
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What are some of the most interesting things you saw in the book about Chinatown? Why did they catch your attention?
How do the shops and streets in Chinatown compare to those in our neighborhood? What similarities or differences can you find?
Can you describe some of the foods mentioned in the book? Which one would you like to try and why?
Why do you think it's important to learn about different cultures and places like Chinatown?
If you could meet one of the characters from the book, who would it be and what would you ask them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to express their thoughts and feelings about the book by asking open-ended questions that require more than a yes or no answer. Show genuine interest in their responses to foster a deeper understanding of the book’s themes. Relate the cultural elements presented in the book to your child’s everyday life to make the discussion more relatable and meaningful.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Cultural appreciation
Explanation: Through vibrant scenes of a bustling Chinatown, the book introduces young readers to various aspects of Chinese culture, including food, festivals, and traditional crafts.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect diverse cultures, enhancing social inclusivity and understanding in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Curiosity and exploration
Explanation: The protagonist's journey through different stalls and shops in Chinatown exemplifies the spirit of exploration and curiosity.
Real-World Application: Encourages children to explore unfamiliar places and learn from real-world environments, fostering a sense of adventure and inquiry.
Example Lesson: Importance of community
Explanation: The story depicts various community members interacting and supporting one another, highlighting the social fabric of Chinatown.
Real-World Application: Teaches children the value of community involvement and helps them understand the role they can play in supporting and building their local communities.
Example Lesson: Value of traditions
Explanation: The narrative includes elements of traditional Chinese practices and values, emphasizing their importance in cultural identity.
Real-World Application: Children learn to respect and carry forward family and cultural traditions, bridging generational gaps and fostering a deeper personal identity.