Books to Inspire: July-August 2024
Madlenka
by Peter Sís
This delightful story follows a girl named Madlenka as she strolls through her neighborhood in a bustling cosmopolitan city much like Bangkok. Along the way, she excitedly announces the news of her first loose tooth. She shows her wiggly tooth to a French baker, an Indian newspaper vendor, and an elderly Burmese shop owner, among other interesting neighbors from around the world. After walking around her block, Madlenka feels as though she has traveled the world, reminding the reader how our interconnected world is vast yet small.
Author and artist Peter Sís’ works are inspired by his children as well as his early life experiences as a Czech political refugee who settled in New York City. The book is filled from cover to cover with incredibly detailed die-cut illustrations, inviting readers to explore the book beyond the first reading. The rich and beautiful drawings provide teaching tools for everything from geography, culture, and neighborhood mapping to diversity.
Published by Square Fish in October 2010. Suitable for ages 4–8. A hardcover copy along with other works by Peter Sís can be found in the Children’s Corner of the library.
Third Culture Kids: Growing Up Among Worlds
by David C. Pollock, Ruth E. Van Reken, and Michael V. Pollock
For over two decades, “Third Culture Kids” has been deemed essential reading for multicultural families around the world. Sociologist David C. Pollock and psychologist Ruth E. Van Reken dive deep into the complex realities faced by third culture kids (TCKs) in adolescence and beyond. The book is divided into three parts: part one explains the unique world of TCKs, part two highlights common characteristics of TCKs, and part three shares advice on maximizing the experience. These practical tools help readers to navigate transitions, find community, and understand their identity, as well as deal with other challenges TCKs tend to face.
Originally published in 1999, “Third Culture Kids” is an international bestseller that remains popular due to its relevance in our increasingly mobile and interconnected world. This latest edition includes updates on pertinent topics from high mobility communities to the impacts of technology. Pollock, Van Reken, and Pollock offer parents and educators insights to raise the next generation of well-rounded global citizens.
Published by Nicholas Brealey Publishing in September 2017. A hardcover copy can be found in the nonfiction section of the library.
Prepared by Angela Chen, a Neilson Hays Library Board Member and the Children’s Program Chair. The Neilson Hays Library is Thailand’s premier English-language library. The Children's Program offers Saturday Story Time, a cozy Children's Corner, and special holiday events. Adult Programs include concerts, art exhibitions, book clubs, and book sales. Located in a UNESCO-awarded historic building with a garden and cafe on site: 195 Surawong Road, Bangkok 10500, Thailand. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook.