Everyone Loves Career Day but Zia: A Zia Story by Dream Chen, Jenny Liao ISBN: 0593425456
Genres: Realistic Fiction
Format: Chapter Book Fiction
Source: MSL Book Review
Goodreads
It’s Career Day at school, and all of the parents are invited to come teach the class about their jobs! Zia wishes that her mom could come teach the other students about her job as a seamstress. But her mom is not comfortable speaking English (her native tongue is Cantonese), and besides – she never misses work. With the help of her teacher, Zia is able to video call into the factory where her mom works. Her mother demonstrates to the class how to make a beautiful dress while Zia translates her words into English. This heartwarming story would be a great addition to any picture book collection, and is cream-of-the-crop worthy. It demonstrates diversity in the classroom, showcases different and unique families and professions (such as a stay-at-home Dad who also comes to school for Career Day), and provides a window into the day-to-day lives of immigrant families. The words and illustrations perfectly celebrate the story, by bringing to life and intermingling the English and Cantonese words onto each page. The back of the book includes an Author’s Note describing her experience growing up as a translator for her parents, as well as a glossary of English to Cantonese words. Recommended for ages 6-7 (1st to 2nd Grade).
Reviewed by: Jenn Mead, Charlotte Hobbs Memorial Library, Lovell