Made in China
on Goodreads (8)
What’s inside...
In order to get a ride home on a dragon's back, Ge-Hui's lost Paper Butterfly must solve a riddle about something made in China 2,000 years ago that is still used today. The butterfly travels extensively within China, visiting significant landmarks like the Forbidden City in Beijing, the Great Wall of China, and the terra-cotta soldiers in Xi'an. In the midst of despair, the butterfly encounters another New Year paper butterfly who might have the answer. The story provides a unique perspective on Chinese culture, complemented by illustrations inspired by Chinese folk art, a map of China, and a DIY guide on creating a paper butterfly.
Series reading
Non-Sequential
Age
4-7
Length
32 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
What did you learn about how products are made in China? Can you think of any items in our home that were made in China?
How do the people in the book contribute to making products? What kind of jobs do they do?
What are some differences and similarities you noticed between how things are made in our country versus how they are made in China?
Why do you think it's important to know where and how the things we use are made?
How do you feel about the working conditions shown in the book? What changes would you suggest to improve them?
Tip: Role play these questions
Encourage your child to think critically about global economics and ethics by discussing the process of manufacturing in different cultures. Highlight the importance of understanding the origins of everyday products to foster a sense of global awareness. Use the illustrations in the book to point out specific details about the factory settings and workers’ activities to make the conversation more vivid and engaging. Relate the story to your child’s experiences by discussing items around your home and identifying where they were made. This can help make the concept more tangible.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Understanding Cultural Diversity
Explanation: Through the story of a young girl discovering her heritage, 'Made in China' explores various elements of Chinese culture, traditions, and practices.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to appreciate and respect differences among people, fostering inclusivity and tolerance in their everyday interactions.
Example Lesson: Value of Family Bonds
Explanation: The narrative emphasizes strong family relationships and the importance of connecting with one’s roots, as the protagonist bonds with her family while learning about her cultural heritage.
Real-World Application: This can encourage children to value and nurture their relationships with family members, understanding the strength and support that comes from familial ties.
Example Lesson: Importance of Curiosity and Learning
Explanation: The main character’s journey is driven by her curiosity about her origins and eagerness to learn more about her cultural background.
Real-World Application: This can inspire children to be inquisitive and passionate about learning, motivating them to explore new topics and gain knowledge.
Example Lesson: Resilience in Facing Identity Challenges
Explanation: As the protagonist confronts and navigates her cultural identity, she demonstrates resilience and determination.
Real-World Application: This can help children understand the importance of being resilient when facing personal challenges, especially in understanding and accepting their own identities.