My Beijing - by Nie Jun (Paperback)

About the Book

"Four short stories set in a hutong, or residential alleyway, of Beijing, China. Yu'er, her grandfather, and their eccentric neighbors experience the magic of everyday life."--

Book Synopsis

A 2019 Batchelder Honor Book

Yu'er and her grandpa live in a small neighborhood in Beijing--and it's full of big personalities. There's a story around every corner, and each day has a hint of magic.

In one tale, Yu'er wants to swim in the Special Olympics, a sports competition for people with disabilities. But she and her grandpa don't have a pool! Their trick to help Yu'er practice wows the whole neighborhood. In another story, a friend takes Yu'er to a wild place full of musical insects. Later, Yu'er hears a special story about her grandparents. And in the final story, Yu'er and her grandpa show a cranky painter the sweet side of life.

Review Quotes

"[C]ontemporary young readers will easily relate to Yu'er's longing to be part of a loving community and caring family, and identify with her good humor and grit in facing life's obstacles."--The Horn Book Magazine

-- (7/31/2018 12:00:00 AM)

"Delicate full-color watercolors add to the gentle, dreamy atmosphere of the neighborhood as Yu'er, her friends, and readers discover the simple magic and wonder in everyday life."--School Library Journal

-- (7/26/2018 12:00:00 AM)

"Each frame of sequential art is a small gem of delicate line and watercolor painting . . ."--The Bulletin of the Center for Children's Books

-- (8/21/2018 12:00:00 AM)

"Jun's exquisite graphics . . . offer nonstop merriment and whimsical delight."--starred, Booklist

-- (6/8/2018 12:00:00 AM)

"Nie Jun's illustrations are lush, the figures expressive and Beijing itself captivating in its detail."--Shelf Awareness

-- (9/21/2018 12:00:00 AM)

"The stories move gracefully between reality and fantasy, a bit like Miyazaki movies, but sweeter."--The New York Times Book Review

-- (10/21/2018 12:00:00 AM)

"Whimsical and sweet, this will remind readers of animated movies such as My Neighbor Totoro and Kiki's Delivery Service."--Kirkus Reviews

-- (6/20/2018 12:00:00 AM)