The Yellow Áo Dài
What’s inside...
Lovingly illustrated by Minnie Phan, Hanh Bui’s debut picture book, The Yellow Áo Dài, is a heartfelt tale of family, identity, and honoring heritage. Excited to perform a traditional Vietnamese Fan Dance, Naliah discovers her special áo dài doesn't fit. Opting for her mom's pretty yellow one, she accidentally rips it and learns it was her grandmother’s from a festival in Vietnam. Through her mother's sewing kit and the spirit of her grandmother's legacy, Naliah mends the áo dài and finds confidence to make it her own, embodying her family's history and her personal growth.
Age
3-6
Length
40 pages
Text complexity
Discussion points
How do you think the main character felt when they wore the yellow áo dài?
What do you think the yellow áo dài represents in the story?
Can you think of a time when you wore something special that made you feel proud or happy?
Why do you think the author chose a yellow áo dài instead of another color?
How do the traditions in the book compare to our family traditions?
Tip: Role play these questions
Before reading the book, ask your child to describe what they think the story might be about based on the cover and title.
Encourage your child to express their feelings and thoughts after reading, relating personal experiences to the story.
Discuss the cultural significance of the áo dài and explore its origin and usage together.
Use expressive reading to emphasize emotions and important points in the story, enhancing understanding and engagement.
After finishing the book, engage in a creative activity like drawing their version of a yellow áo dài or writing a short story about a day wearing it.
Key lessons
Example Lesson: Embracing Cultural Heritage
Explanation: The story revolves around a young girl exploring the significance of wearing a traditional Vietnamese dress, the Áo Dài. Through family interactions and community events, she learns the value of her cultural heritage.
Real-World Application: Children can apply this lesson by showing interest in their own family traditions, asking questions about their cultural backgrounds, and participating in cultural events.
Example Lesson: Respect for Elders
Explanation: The protagonist demonstrates respect by listening attentively to her grandmother’s stories about their culture and traditions while wearing the Áo Dài.
Real-World Application: This lesson can guide children to show respect to their elders by listening to their stories, learning from their experiences, and valuing their wisdom.
Example Lesson: Pride in Personal Identity
Explanation: As the girl wears the Áo Dài throughout various events, she grows more confident and proud of her identity.
Real-World Application: Children can learn to take pride in their unique attributes and backgrounds, helping them build a strong sense of self that fosters confidence in social settings.
Example Lesson: Importance of Family
Explanation: The book highlights the supportive role of family when the girl's relatives come together to celebrate traditions wearing their Áo Dài, creating a sense of unity and belonging.
Real-World Application: This lesson encourages children to value and nurture relationships with family members, recognizing the strength and love that family bonds provide.
Example Lesson: Understanding Diverse Cultures
Explanation: Through the girl’s story, readers explore concepts of cultural diversity and acceptance, learning that every culture has unique and valuable elements.
Real-World Application: This lesson helps children approach peers from various backgrounds with curiosity and respect, promoting inclusivity and mutual appreciation in diverse settings.