D is for Doufu: An Alphabet Book of Chinese Culture
By Maywan Shen Krach
Illustrated by Hongbin Zhang
$10.95, Paperback, 32 pages
English Text
All Ages
ISBN-10: 1885008163
ISBN-13: 9781885008169
This vital book introduces readers to Chinese culture, beliefs, and legends in today's context. It will help to narrow the cultural and philosophical gap between Chinese and Westerners. "D is for Doufu" explores the meanings of 23 Chinese words and phrases while providing an interesting historical and cultural background. Readers from all cultures are invited to experience the wealth of Chinese tradition as the alphabet is used to journey through five thousand years of Chinese history and relate ancient concepts to the modern western world.
This 32-page book illuminates 23 Chinese terms with both Chinese characters and hanyu-pinyin (Romanized Chinese), followed by an English translation and narrative. Chinese folk art illuminates the text and provides both whimsy and lyricism. Using handmade papers and brocades with mineral paints for the illustrations, the artist has perfected a style based upon China's ancient cave paintings created in the third century. Literature and art are brilliantly combined in this book, just as Chinese and Western thought have melded together in contemporary society.
The Parent's Guide to Children's Media has honored D is for Doufu, written by Maywan Shen Krach and illustrated by Hongbin Zhang, with its outstanding achievement in reference books for 1998 award.
Their review of the book reads:
"The meanings of 23 words and phrases are included in this beautifully illustrated book that explores the richness of the Chinese culture. Each word and phrase is introduced by a written image and an explanation of the spoken Mandarin language. The phrase is also accompanied by a picture representing Chinese culture and history. Of special interest is the carefully explained details of the written characters. Includes explanations of tones and sounds of the Mandarin language."
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