Blog Archives
I Love Curry and I’m Not Sorry
Prepare to embark on a delightful journey into the heartwarming world of Rafa, a young boy who’s deeply connected to his family’s culinary traditions and the rich tapestry of his culture. I Love Curry and I’m Not Sorry is a story that will capture your heart and inspire a celebration of diversity. Rafa’s love for his family’s cuisine runs deep as he savors every flavor and contemplates the fascinating history woven into his cultural dishes. From aromatic rice to delectable samosas, his taste buds dance with joy. However, there’s a bittersweet twist to Rafa’s culinary adventure. His friends, perhaps hesitant or unfamiliar with his exotic fare, shy away from trying the dishes he holds dear to his heart. But then, the story takes an exciting turn as Rafa seizes an opportunity to shine on World Food Day at his school. With an eagerness that’s infectious, he unveils the wondrous flavors and vibrant colors that his culture’s food has to offer. The magic unfolds as Rafa’s friends take that brave step, realizing that his food is not just delicious but an exciting journey into the unknown.
I Love Curry and I’m Not Sorry is a sweet and charming tale that carries a powerful message for young readers and adults alike. It celebrates the beauty of being different and the joy of sharing one’s cultural heritage. Rafa’s unwavering commitment to staying true to himself is a testament to the importance of authenticity. Author Erlin Kakkanad has crafted a story that’s both fun and enlightening. It encourages young readers to be open-minded and adventurous when it comes to exploring new flavors and cultures. The vivid illustrations transport readers into Rafa’s world, allowing them to not only savor the aromas but also appreciate the rich history that surrounds us all. The author has thoughtfully enriched this tale by including a list of cultural facts, providing readers with a deeper understanding of the traditions behind Rafa’s beloved dishes. Alongside these facts, images of the various spices used in his family’s recipes immerse readers in an educational and sensory experience, making the story all the more immersive and engaging.
In a world where diversity should be celebrated, I Love Curry and I’m Not Sorry reminds us that our differences are what make our country, and our world, so incredibly beautiful. It’s a book that will leave you with a smile on your face and a heart full of appreciation for the flavors and colors of life. Embrace the culinary adventure with Rafa, and you’ll discover that being different is something to be cherished and celebrated.
Pages: 90 | ASIN : B0CH4HS4JB
China Watcher
Author Eugene William Levich’s China Watcher gives a rare, personalized account of China’s culture and history while also touching on the political unrest characteristic of its relationship with Taiwan. Levich has an advanced understanding of East Asian studies, having received two master’s degrees and a doctorate in the field. China Watcher recounts his time living abroad in Taiwan in the 1970s, where he was able to experience the local lifestyle firsthand. Charming anecdotes are intermingled with brief historical explanations in an attempt to provide a comprehensive view of Taiwan, which is an essential part of mainland China and its own independent entity.
What I found most remarkable about this work was the thoughtful, clever, and compassionate way in which it was written. What could have been yet another dry historical text is brought to life by the very personal nature of the writing. Often chapters open with lines of poetry or ancient Chinese wisdom, which adds a quality of loveliness to the text and seems an accurate reflection of the culture.
Though the author does discuss the politics and recent history of the region, what stands out most are his stories—his own personal experience with the Taiwanese. For example, he tells one story of Ah Hua, a little girl who lived on his block, who once organized a heist to obtain his fresh pineapple plate. Because the story is told with such obvious affection, you cannot help but fall in love with Ah Hua yourself and with Taiwanese culture as a whole.
While a delightful read, China Watcher did tend at times to read like a college lecture—albeit funny and thoughtful. If that was the intention, then it succeeds. Perhaps, though, with a heavier lean towards memoir and away from history textbooks, the text could be appreciated by a wider audience.
China Watcher is an entertaining and educational look into the philosophy and culture of the Taiwanese. Through true story accounts and well-researched historical facts, readers will develop a comprehensive understanding of what life is like on the island of Taiwan.
Pages: 277 | ASIN : B079654SJG
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