Shu-Li and Tamara.

Deborah Dowson is a Canaadian children’s librarian in North Wales,
Pennsylvania.

Shu-Li moved to Canada from China two years ago, and has lived in the Commercial Drive neighbourhood of Vancouver for the past six months. So far, she has been so busy with schoolwork, music lessons, and helping out in her parents’ deli that she hasn’t had time to explore the neighbourhood or make new friends. One day Tamara comes to the deli with her mother and stays for a visit. Shu-Li and Tamara become friends and start spending a lot of time together at the deli and exploring the “Drive.” They also work with other classmates on a Kids Helping Kids project. When another classmate accuses Tamara of stealing, Shu-Li refuses to believe it. Shu-Li remains a loyal friend and ultimately Tamara’s accuser is proven wrong.

This beginning chapter book is a story about friendship and loyalty, but also about the experiences a young Chinese immigrant may encounter in making the transition to a new life. Shu-Li is sometimes embarrassed by her parents, particularly in the way her mother speaks English, and she has issues herself about speaking up in class. Yet the story focuses on the positive ways (through food, friendship, and a common cause) that cultures are celebrated and shared. Shu-Li comes to appreciate her parents and their values, and by holding true to herself and her friend, she is a positive model for everyone. The encouraging message of this story is presented with a wonderfully bright cover and cheerful illustrations on every page.