Dim Sum for Everyone

       

Dim Sum for Everyone

 

Written and Illustrated by Grace Lin

 

Alfred A. Knopf, 2001, 32 pp.,  $14.95

ISBN 0-375-81082-X  (ages 3-6)

Rating:  HR            Genre:  Contemporary Realistic Fiction

What is a dim sum?  Translated “dim sum” means “touches the heart” because you choose to eat whatever your heart desires.  This custom, introduced into the Western world in the mid 19th century, is explained in Lin’s book, Dim Sum for Everyone.  Lin recreates an actual dim sum and shows a family choosing and eating their favorite delicacies from tiny plates.

Young readers easily understand Lin’s brightly colored illustrations and simplistic phrases.  The end papers add to the informational value of the book since foods eaten at a dim sum are featured with labels in English and Chinese. The author also provides excellent endnotes, which contain additional information about this ancient Chinese custom.  This story could lead a class into hosting their very own Dim Sum.  (Trade Book)

Reviewer: Robin D. Blake

                Pre-Service Teacher

                Early Childhood Education

 

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