My Chinatown: One Year in Poems

My Chinatown: One Year in Poems. Kam Mak. New York: HarperCollins Publishers, 2002. 32 pages. $16.89 (Hardcover). ISBN 0-06-029191-5. Grades 2-6.

“How can it ever be a good year thousands of miles away from home?” In My Chinatown: One Year in Poems a young boy chronicles his family’s recent move from Hong Kong to New York’s Chinatown. From Winter to Winter he reflects on what he is missing in Hong Kong and comparing it to what he sees before him in his new home. While there are traditional celebrations, foods, and items that remind him of Hong Kong; nothing is quite the same. As the year progresses, however, this young boy begins to embrace the differences around him as well, deciding that it may not be home, but it is Chinatown. Kam Mak paints the streets of New York’s Chinatown in photograph like illustrations and words that appeal to all the senses. Mak addresses the uncertainty and wariness of starting over in a different place, but offers hope in the similarities that can be found and the unique differences that are accidentally encountered. Chinese culture is beautifully described and depicted, opening a new world to many readers while reminding others of their own. This book offers comfort and home to those who find themselves in unfamiliar territory. Highly Recommended