Grandmother from the East, Grandmother from the West

Jacinta Liu • Illustrated by Freda Chiu

Grandmother from the East, Grandmother from the West is a heartfelt, visually rich picture book celebrating bicultural grandparent-grandchild bonds. Through gentle, lyrical text, it contrasts one grandmother’s heritage from the East—full of dumplings, courage, and dragon spirit—with the other’s Western lineage of bread-making, healing hands, and soothing warmth. Freda Chiu’s expressive illustrations use rich red and blue palettes, symbolic endpapers, and joyful domestic scenes to underscore themes of unity and identity—without ever turning it into a “lesson.”

Why It’s Included

I’ve included this title because it beautifully addresses cross-cultural identity in a family context—something that resonates deeply in today’s multicultural households. It’s warm, unpressured, and deeply respectful, offering reassurance to children who feel connected to more than one culture. Rather than teaching tolerance, it honours heritage through everyday love, shared meals, and second-nature rituals—just what thoughtful parents and educators treasure.  

Who It’s For

This book is ideal for children aged 4–6, especially those growing up between cultures or with grandparents from different backgrounds. It also offers a meaningful window for families, teachers, and librarians to start conversations about heritage, belonging, and the wisdom passed down by elders. A gentle celebration of pride in rootedness and dual identity.