The House Baba Built: An Artist's Childhood in China

                                                                                   Book Review-

Bibliography-

Young, E. (2011). The house baba built: An artist's childhood in china. Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.

ISBN 978-0316076289

Plot Summary- 

In Ed Young's childhood home in Shanghai, all was not as it seemed: a rocking chair became a horse; a roof became a roller rink; an empty swimming pool became a place for riding scooters and bikes. The house his father built was transformed as needed into a place to play hide-and-seek, eat bamboo shoots, and be safe. Outside the home's walls, China was at war. Soon the house held not only Ed and his four siblings but also friends, relatives, and even strangers who became family. The war grew closer, and Ed watched as planes flew overhead and friends joined the Chinese air force. But through it all, Ed's childhood remained full of joy and imagination.

 

Critical Analysis-

The central theme of The House Baba Built is the power of family and the preservation of memories. The house becomes a symbol of love, tradition, and cultural heritage that transcends time and distance. It highlights the importance of familial connections and the emotional significance attached to a physical space. Ed Young's illustrations in the book are visually stunning and capture the true essence of the story. He uses a mix of collage, watercolor, and ink techniques to create vibrant and textured images. The illustrations enhance the storyline, allowing readers to be immersed in the world of the story and connect with the emotions conveyed. This story celebrates Chinese culture and traditions. It incorporates elements of Chinese architecture, calligraphy, and symbolism throughout the illustrations. The book provides a glimpse into the rich cultural heritage of China and promotes understanding and appreciation of different cultures. It could be used as an educational tool to introduce children to Chinese culture, architecture, and the importance of family. It encourages discussions about heritage, ancestry, and the value of preserving family stories and traditions. The book also subtly addresses the theme of immigration and the sense of belonging.

 

Review Excerpts-

Norman A. Sugarman Award (2012)

Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature for Picture Book (2011)

“Ed Young's memoir about his childhood home in Shanghai is an astonishingly beautiful, exquisitely designed work of art, a genuine masterpiece.”—Booklist Starred Review

“The story paints a very moving and fascinating picture of a culture in transition.”—Kirkus Review

 

Connections-

- The story highlights the author's Chinese heritage and the cultural clash he experiences growing up in America. Teachers can start a whole group discussion on multiculturalism, identity, and the importance of embracing and celebrating diverse backgrounds. Students can explore their own cultural heritage and create visual representations of their family's history.

- The illustrations in The House Baba Built are a vital part of the storytelling process. Engage students in analyzing and interpreting the artwork, discussing how the illustrations enhance the story and evoke emotions. Students can also create their own illustrations inspired by the book.

- The House Baba Built is a memoir, which provides an opportunity for students to explore this type of writing. Teachers can introduce the characteristics of memoirs, such as personal reflection, vivid storytelling, and capturing significant memories. Students can write their own memoirs, focusing on a specific event or period in their lives that holds meaning for them.