Book Review of Mama’s Love Language: Sometimes Love Tastes Like Hainan Chicken Rice
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The Children’s Book Review
Mama’s Love Language: Sometimes Love Tastes Like Hainan Chicken Rice
Written by Elisa Stad
Illustrated by Ry Menson
Ages 5-10 | 31 Pages
Publisher: Ginger Lotus Press | ISBN-13: 9798988378518
What to Expect: Identity, Belonging, Family Relationships, Cultural Heritage and
Pride, Communication, and Understanding.
Elisa Stad’s Mama’s Love Language tenderly explores the intricate dynamics of multicultural identity and familial love through the eyes of Jade, a young girl navigating the complexities of her Chinese American heritage. This picture book delves into themes of belonging, cultural pride, and the profound ways love is expressed within families.
Jade grapples with the contrast between her parents’ expressions of love: her father’s affectionate gestures and her mother’s more subtle yet deeply caring actions. Through Jade’s introspective journey, readers are invited to contemplate the multifaceted nature of identity as they witness her frustration, embarrassment, and eventual understanding as she confronts her mother’s cultural heritage and the sacrifices made for their family’s well-being.
The narrative unfolds authentically, capturing Jade’s emotions with nuance and empathy. Stad sensitively portrays Jade’s internal conflict as she struggles to reconcile her sense of self with societal expectations and familial traditions. She weaves in moments of revelation and reflection, guiding Jade—and readers—toward a profound realization of the richness of her heritage and the strength of familial bonds.
Illustrated with heartfelt sincerity by Ry Menson, the illustrations beautifully capture the warmth and complexity of Jade’s world. From the comforting aromas of home-cooked meals wafting through the air to the tender moments shared between parent and child, every detail is rendered with care and sensitivity.
Mama’s Love Language is a poignant reminder of the power of love to transcend language and cultural barriers. Through Jade’s journey of self-discovery, readers witness that true belonging lies not in conforming to societal norms but in embracing one’s unique identity and heritage. Mama’s Love Language is a treasure to be cherished and shared, offering a glimpse into the profound beauty of cultural diversity and the transformative power of empathy and understanding.
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About the Author
Elisa Stad, for the majority of her career, was a brand and international business executive for luxury goods and consumer product companies. After experiencing working in over 40 countries, she acquired a passion for globalization and the sharing of cultures based on her experiences. Elisa is also focused on inspiring the youth through her efforts in healthcare inequities through Stad Center of Pain, Palliative, and Integrative Medicine and serves on college boards at USC, UCSF and Harvard.
Elisa grew up in a mixed-race household, as a daughter of a Vietnamese refugee mother and American father. She grew up in a multicultural home, searching for identity. She also moved homes often in her childhood including to Asia and within the US to Idaho and California.
She always wanted to share with other young children the beauty of humanity and how we can celebrate our unique gifts. You can find her enjoying ballet, visiting local Asian street markets, practicing yoga, and focusing on her spiritual practice. Elisa lives in Southern California with her husband, 3 children and a bernedoodle.
For more information, visit https://www.elisastad.com/.
Dedicated Reviews allow authors and illustrators to gain prompt visibility for their work. This is a sponsored*, non-biased review of Mama’s Love Language: Sometimes Love Tastes Like Hainan Chicken Rice. Learn more about getting a book review …
