In ancient times, the Chinese saw the dragon as both a protector and a threat, able to bring on rain or cause droughts. To honor this powerful creature, people created long narrow boats that they raced in an annual rainmaking festival. From the wearing of fragrant pouches, to the consumption of rice dumplings, to thrilling boat races, the dragon boat festival of today is a celebration of Chinese traditions all over the world. Arlene Chan, a respected librarian and an experienced dragon boat racer, explores the origins of the festival, its customs, and the races themselves. Beautifully detailed illustrations by Song Nan Zhang let you experience the beauty and energy of this ancient festival.
China
Materials from China
The Legend Of Lao Tzu And The Tao Te Ching
A biography of Lo Tzu, the mysterious philosopher who is said to have been born at the age of 81 with snow-white hair, the ability to walk and talk, and unparalleled wisdom.
SuDongpo
A biography of Su Dongpo, Chinese poet, civil engineer and statesman, whose appreciation for nature and justice were evident in his works and led him to experience both triumph and adversity in 11th century China.
Be Water, My Friend: The Early Years Of Bruce Lee
A biography of Bruce Lee focusing on his early years in Hong Kong, where he discovered martial arts and began developing the physical and mental skills that led to his career as a legendary martial artist and film star.
The Magic Horse Of Han Gan
A legendary artist, Han Gan, who lived in china 1,200 years ago painted horses. His horse paintings were so realistic, that his horses come alive.
A Time Of Golden Dragons
Where dragons come from is introduced historically and culturally.
Shanghai Shadows
From 1939 to 1945, a Jewish family struggles to survive in occupied China, young ilse by remaining optimistic, her older brother by joining a resistance movement, her mother by maintaining connections to the past, and her father by playing the violin that had been his livelihood.
The 12 Animals of the Chinese Zodiac
Chinese folktale about the twelve animal signs of the Chinese Zodiac.
The Diary of Ma Yan
Ma Yan’s heart-wrenching, honest diary chronicles her struggle to escape hardship and bring prosperity to her family through her persistent, sometimes desperate, attempts to continue her schooling in a drought-stricken corner of rural China.
Featured in WOW Review Volume X, Issue 4.
Landed
After leaving his home in southeastern China, twelve-year-old Sun is held and interrogated on Angel Island before being allowed to join his merchant father in San Francisco.
Join the discussion of Landed as well as other books centered around relocation on our My Take/Your Take page.