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Crouching Tiger (picture book) facts for kids

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Crouching Tiger
Crouching Tiger Cover.jpg
Author Ying Chang Compestine
Country United States
Language English
Genre Children's books
Publisher Candlewick
Publication date
December 13, 2011
ISBN 0763646423

Crouching Tiger is a fun picture book for young readers. It was written by the award-winning author Ying Chang Compestine. Yan Nascimbene created the beautiful pictures. The story is about a young Chinese-American boy. He learns to love his Chinese background through his grandfather's tai chi lessons.

What is Crouching Tiger About?

Vinson's Journey to His Heritage

In the book Crouching Tiger, a boy named Vinson gets a special visitor. His grandfather comes all the way from China! Grandpa calls Vinson by his Chinese name, Ming Da. He wants Vinson to connect with his Chinese roots.

Grandpa suggests Vinson wear traditional Chinese clothes. He also wants to teach him tai chi. Vinson is excited at first. He thinks tai chi will be like Kung Fu, full of kicks and punches.

Discovering Tai Chi's True Meaning

Vinson soon learns that tai chi is different. It's more about calm movements and meditation. It's not about fighting. This makes Vinson feel a bit disappointed.

Later, Vinson and his grandfather go to a Chinese New Year parade. Vinson is amazed to see how much respect people show his grandfather. Everyone seems to know him!

Finding Pride in His Culture

During the parade, Vinson is invited to join in. This is a big moment for him. He starts to feel proud of his heritage. Vinson realizes that his Chinese background is special. He decides he is happy to learn tai chi from his grandfather after all.

Main Characters

  • Vinson: He is the main character, also known as Ming Da.
  • Grandpa: Vinson's wise grandfather from China. He is skilled in martial arts.

Awards and Recognition

Crouching Tiger has won several awards. These awards show how much people love the book.

  • Panda Book Award in China
  • The Morning Calm Award in South Korea
  • The Chinese American Librarians Association Best Book of 2011
  • CCBC Choice for 2012
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