Author Shirley Chen shares magical tales of dragons, bricklayers,
princesses and kings in the stories told by her father during her
childhood in northern China.
Presented in both Mandarin and English, this book is an excellent
learning tool for English language students, drawing on Chinese folklore
to provide familiarity and enthusiasm for its readers.
The tales are part of a verbal tradition
recorded and published here, to the best of the author’s knowledge, for the first
time. Chen’s stories are a three generation project: told by
her father, written by herself, and illustrated by her son.
Stories My Father Told Me is a delightful read. It is simple
enough for the newest readers, yet provides insight into the storytelling
culture of another land. North american readers will be surprised
at how similar the fables are to their own childhood tales, yet pleased
with their slightly different twist.
