Take Me to Lăolao

Take Me to Lăolao is a heartwarming tale that gently tugs at the heartstrings, inviting readers into the vivid dreamscape of a young girl yearning for her beloved maternal grandmother. As she navigates the bittersweet waves of memory during the Spring Lantern Festival, readers are swept into a realm where Chinese mythology breathes life into every page.

This year, as the family gathers to celebrate the Spring Lantern Festival, there's a hint of sadness in the air for the little girl. Her usual joy is tempered by the absence of her beloved grandmother who has passed away and can no longer join in the festivities. That night, as sleepiness embraces her, she embarks on a dream-filled journey in search of her Lăolao. Guided by a quaint fishing boat, the benevolent Dragon King, and the sage Jade Emperor, the girl’s journey leads her to a vibrant night market which mirrors the one from her grandmother's village that she holds dear in her memories. There, by a stone bridge, she finds her grandmother waiting. In a tender reunion, they share heartfelt confessions of missing one another. Side by side, they spend the enchanted evening watching paper lanterns ascend into the night sky, a silent promise of their enduring love and connection.

The author, Kelly Zhang, not only weaves a narrative of love and tradition but also provides a bridge to Chinese heritage. With an informative author's note, an introduction to the Lantern Festival, and mythological figures, the book becomes a vessel of knowledge. It's a celebration of culture that extends an invitation to children of Chinese heritage and those unfamiliar with these rich traditions. Concluding with a hands-on craft activity of folding a paper lotus lantern, the book not only tells a story but invites participation, leaving readers with a tangible piece of the narrative to hold on to.

Utilizing 'Lăolao', the pinyin for 'grandma', throughout the narrative, offers an authentic glimpse into Chinese familial terms. It's a thoughtful touch that educates and connects readers to the linguistic threads of Chinese culture.

Evie Zhu's digital illustrations are a visual symphony that harmonizes with the storyline. Her expertise in Chinese cultural aesthetics shines, bringing to life the little girl's journey and the festive spirit of the Spring Lantern Festival. The inclusion “Chinese Mythology" in the girl's bedroom serves as a subtle yet insightful nod to the mythological elements that cradle her dream.

Take Me to Lăolao is more than a picture book; it's a vessel carrying a message of love, cultural identity, and the unspoken dialogue between generations. It's a book that promises to light a lantern in the hearts of its readers, guiding them through the night sky of dreams and back into the warmth of cherished memories.