Little Brown Books for Young Readers | 978-0316377102
When the cover of this week’s book popped up on my social media feed, I was immediately intrigued by the young protagonist, Lily, her mouth agape and holding the words “THIS IS NOT MY HOME.” Her expression of disbelief and desperation spoke for itself and I couldn’t wait to get my hands on this book to learn more.
This picture book did not disappoint! It’s powerful for so many reasons, but first I’ll mention that the book — both the art and text — were the result of a close collaboration between Eugenia Yoh and Vivienne Chang that began at the height of the pandemic. In Yoh’s own words (see link to the full interview below):
“It is hard to attribute who wrote what because so much of the concept and writing are intertwined through Zoom conversations. While I was the one who officially put pen to tablet and drew the physical pictures, Vivienne was there every step of the way.”
Another reason it is such a gem is because this is a book with heart, a tender “reverse immigration” story about a girl who must leave her home in America to return to Taiwan to take care of her Ah Ma (grandmother). Though her mom urges her to be understanding, “Lily was not understanding. Not while packing. Not on the airplane. Not even when she saw Ah Ma.”
CLICK TO ENLARGE Text and Illustrations © Vivienne Chang and Eugenia Yoh
And when Ah Ma says, “Welcome home!” The only thing Lily can say is, “This is not my home.” Nothing is the same. Not the backyard BBQ, not the fireflies, not her school.
Lily feels angry and alone.
As you might imagine, over time, Lily adjusts. Taiwan may not be her home, but it is the home of her mom’s family, and childhood. “And this can be ours,” her mom gently reminds her.
CLICK TO ENLARGE Text and Illustrations © Vivienne Chang and Eugenia Yoh
Illustrations, sketched and colored in Photoshop, include wordless spreads, panels, and speech bubbles (in English and Chinese characters), all together making for engaging art and a design that expands the story.
***
- Enjoy this behind the scenes interview with Vivienne Chang and Eugenia Yoh about the creation of This is Not My Home.
