Dung Ho
Dung Ho was born and raised in Hue Imperial City, Vietnam, where she studied graphic design at the Hue Arts University. She finds inspiration in nature—the beauty of plants, flowers, and leaves. She also loves to draw interesting characters with unique personalities. Now she lives in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, where she continues to learn and develop her art, something she loves doing. When she’s not drawing, she loves spending time cooking (eating), watching movies, and tending her plants.
Kids Books (2)
Synopsis:
This lyrical, stunning picture book tells a story about learning to love and celebrate your Asian-shaped eyes and is a celebration of diversity.
A young Asian girl notices that her eyes look different from her peers'. They have big, round eyes and long lashes. She realizes that her eyes are like her mother’s, her grandmother's, and her little sister's. They have eyes that kiss in the corners and glow like warm tea, crinkle into crescent moons, and are filled with stories of the past and hope for the future.
Drawing from the strength of these powerful women in her life, she recognizes her own beauty and discovers a path to self-love and empowerment. This powerful, poetic picture book will resonate with readers of all ages.
Reviews
“When the narrator comes to describe her own eyes and acknowledges the power they hold, she is posed against swirling patterns, figures, and swaths of breathtaking landscapes from Chinese culture. This tale of self-acceptance and respect for one’s roots is breathtaking.” — Kirkus Reviews (starred review)
“A young girl finds beauty in her uniqueness.” —School Library Journal (starred review)
“A poignant testament to familial love and legacy.”— Publishers Weekly
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 8.
Subjects / Themes / Keywords: Self-Esteem; Self-Acceptance; #ownvoices story; Family; Diverse Picture Books
Additional Information
40 pages | 9.00" x 11.00"
Synopsis:
A lovingly empowering story about finding courage and strength in your family, history, and community through a traditional and cherished Samoan dance, taualuga. Written by debut author, Kealani Netane, and illustrated by New York Times bestselling illustrator, Dung Ho.
Tala wishes that she could dance the traditional Samoan dance, the taualuga, just like her Aunty Sina. But Tala's legs are too bouncy, her arms are too stiff, and she doesn't have Aunty's 'glow' when she dances. When Tala prepares to perform at her Grandma's birthday, she freezes on the stage. Will she find the strength and inspiration to help her dance?
Newcomer Kealani Netane crafts a heartwarming story about finding your inner strength through the love and guidance of your family. New York Times best-selling illustrator Dung Ho's cheerful colors and sweet characters bring this loving story to life, making this the perfect gift for little ones who are learning how to follow their hearts and make their own paths.
Reviews
"Netane’s debut celebrates individual perseverance and connection to Samoan culture as a girl, Tala, learns to siva from her heart." -- Publishers Weekly
Educator Information
Recommended for ages 4 to 8.
Additional Information
32 pages | 8.50" x 11.00" | Hardcover