Description
Born in the Year of the Snake, May Tang is like flowing water when she should have more fire. A dreamer, she will never be sensible and obedient like her elder sister Jie Jie or clever like her brother Peter, studying in Australia. But her parents are worried by rumoured events in China, and May finds herself on her way to a new life in Australia.
It is so different that May wonders if she will ever be able to love this new country.
Review
May is a daydreamer who is always being told off by her big sister, Jie Jie. She loves her friends, her grandfather and her Mum’s dumplings.
May’s older brother Peter is living in Australia because of his views about the Chinese Government.
But when the terrible incidents in Tiananmen Square take place, May’s family fear for their safety as well.
A decision is made for May and her Mum to move to Sydney to be with Peter. May is devastated by this decision, but knows she has no choice.
Eleven-year-old May is a character that Year 7 students who are starting a new chapter in their lives will relate to. She is determined to make the best of her new home, but finding new friends and fitting in when everything is so different is not easy for her.
Told with humour and compassion, this would be an ideal classroom novel about acceptance, differences, and all the amazing elements that make Australia such a wonderful melting pot of cultures.
Perfect for Year 7 girls.
Reviewed by Michelle
