What do you think?
Rate this book
Red Kite, Blue Kite
When Tai Shan and his father, Baba, fly kites from their roof and look down at the crowded city streets below, they feel free, like the kites. Baba loves telling Tai Shan stories while the kites—one red, and one blue—rise, dip, and soar together. Then, a bad time comes. People wearing red armbands shut down the schools, smash store signs, and search houses. Baba is sent away, and Tai Shan goes to live with Granny Wang. Though father and son are far apart, they have a secret way of staying close. Every day they greet each other by flying their kites—one red, and one blue—until Baba can be free again, like the kites.
Inspired by the dark time of the Cultural Revolution in China, this is a soaring tale of hope that will resonate with anyone who has ever had to love from a distance.
Inspired by the dark time of the Cultural Revolution in China, this is a soaring tale of hope that will resonate with anyone who has ever had to love from a distance.
32 pages, Hardcover
First published January 22, 2013
3 people are currently reading
316 people want to read
About the author
Ji-li Jiang
12 books97 followersComing from Shanghai, China, in 1984, where she used to be a science teacher, author Ji-li Jiang studied in Hawaii then worked as a corporate Operations Analyst and Budgeting Director for several years. In 1992, she co-founded East West Exchange, Inc., a company created to promote and facilitate cultural and business exchanges between China and the western countries.
Ji-li's first book, Red Scarf Girl fulfilled a long cherished wish to tell her story about what happened to her, her family, her neighborhood, and to her school during the 1960s Cultural Revolution in China. Red Scarf Girl won an ALA 1998 Best Book for Young Adults award, ALA Notable Book award, was cited by Publishers Weekly 1997 as one of the Best Nonfiction Books for Children, as well as a Parenting magazine Magic Awards—1997 Most Wonderful Children's Books. To reach so many children with her own story has been very meaningful to Ms. Jiang.
Today, Ji-li lives in the San Francisco area. Besides writing, she devotes her time to various cultural exchange programs; organizing groups to study alternative medicine in China; bringing Chinese art troupes to perform in the States; sending students to summer camps in China to understand the Chinese culture, etc.
She says, "If there is one goal I'd like to achieve in my life it is to bridge the gap between China and the western countries. I strongly believe that a better understanding around the world is the basis of world peace."
Ji-li's first book, Red Scarf Girl fulfilled a long cherished wish to tell her story about what happened to her, her family, her neighborhood, and to her school during the 1960s Cultural Revolution in China. Red Scarf Girl won an ALA 1998 Best Book for Young Adults award, ALA Notable Book award, was cited by Publishers Weekly 1997 as one of the Best Nonfiction Books for Children, as well as a Parenting magazine Magic Awards—1997 Most Wonderful Children's Books. To reach so many children with her own story has been very meaningful to Ms. Jiang.
Today, Ji-li lives in the San Francisco area. Besides writing, she devotes her time to various cultural exchange programs; organizing groups to study alternative medicine in China; bringing Chinese art troupes to perform in the States; sending students to summer camps in China to understand the Chinese culture, etc.
She says, "If there is one goal I'd like to achieve in my life it is to bridge the gap between China and the western countries. I strongly believe that a better understanding around the world is the basis of world peace."
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 177 reviews
September 14, 2018
Short, sad little tale with a hopeful end about a really frightening time in recent history in China. The Cultural Revolution split towns and villages and families, with people denouncing each other and destruction, humiliation, violence and murder resulting.
This quiet little story is of Tai Shan and his father spending time together flying kites. Because of his views, Tai Shan's father is sent to a labour camp, and Tai Shan is sent to live with Granny Wang near the camp. They maintain their connection by each flying a kite once every week.
The story is dark, with one wondering at one point whether father and son will ever see each other again. Though aimed at children, the story does convey the fear and loneliness of people forcibly separated during the irrational and terrifying times of the Cultural Revolution.
(I recently finished Susan Barker's "The Incarnations", and this period in Chinese history was still fresh in my mind, so this book immediately caught my eye when I was in the library.)
This quiet little story is of Tai Shan and his father spending time together flying kites. Because of his views, Tai Shan's father is sent to a labour camp, and Tai Shan is sent to live with Granny Wang near the camp. They maintain their connection by each flying a kite once every week.
The story is dark, with one wondering at one point whether father and son will ever see each other again. Though aimed at children, the story does convey the fear and loneliness of people forcibly separated during the irrational and terrifying times of the Cultural Revolution.
(I recently finished Susan Barker's "The Incarnations", and this period in Chinese history was still fresh in my mind, so this book immediately caught my eye when I was in the library.)
March 11, 2016
Tai Shan and his father, Baba, live in China during the Chinese Revolution. Tai Shan loves his father and the time that they spend together, particularly when they fly kites together. When Baba is taken away to a work camp for having different beliefs than Mao Zedong, he tells Tai Shan to fly his red kite. Baba agrees to fly his blue kite too. In this way, they can still talk to one another even though they are apart. When Baba is taken to a work camp even further away, Tai Shan flies both kites everyday to keep their tradition alive. In this way, he feels closer to his father. Other villagers join Tai Shan until one afternoon when Baba returns home. They reunite under a sky full of red and blue kites, finally free.
There are very few children's books centered on this event in history. Though they may have limited background knowledge, students would be able to connect to the universal themes expressed in this book. The illustrations depict historically accurate images of China during that time without being too stereotypical. The pictures are also layered: the action of the revolution occurs in the background with Tai Shan looking on while in the foreground. The illustrator provides a variety of different perspectives, sometimes providing an aerial view while zooming in on specific faces on other pages. The only major pops of color belong to the red and blue kites, which focuses the readers attention.
There are very few children's books centered on this event in history. Though they may have limited background knowledge, students would be able to connect to the universal themes expressed in this book. The illustrations depict historically accurate images of China during that time without being too stereotypical. The pictures are also layered: the action of the revolution occurs in the background with Tai Shan looking on while in the foreground. The illustrator provides a variety of different perspectives, sometimes providing an aerial view while zooming in on specific faces on other pages. The only major pops of color belong to the red and blue kites, which focuses the readers attention.
March 15, 2013
Historical fiction is one of my very favorite genres, especially when it is based on real events or people. Lately, I have been reading a lot of historical fiction picture books and I have been loving them. Not only do they introduce young children to important events or people in history, they add so much to older kids' understanding to what they may be learning/reviewing in school. Picture, especially in the hands of a skillful illustrator, can provide a detailed visualization, in the same way a map helps us find our way.
Red Kite, Blue Kite is a picture book that begins just before takes the Cultural Revolution in China that occurred during the 1960s. Tai Shan and his Baba (father) like to fly their kites from the rooftop of their home. Tai Shan's kite is red, his father's is blue. Kite flying is a special time for Tai Shan, because on the roof they feel free and Baba tells lots of stories.
"Then, a bad time comes." Tai Shan's school is closed and he is sent to live with a farmer when his father is sent to a labor camp. Granny Wang is good to Tai Shan, but he still dreams of being back home with his Baba and their kites. But, at least, Baba can visit every Sunday, walking the long distance so they can be together and fly their kites.
One Sunday, Baba tells Tai Shan he will not be able to visit for a while. He tells Tai Shan to fly his red kite every morning and Baba will answer this by flying his blue kite in the evening. It will be their secret signal.
But one day, Baba tells Tai Shan he will not be able to fly his blue kite anymore. He gives it to Tai Shan and tells him to fly both of them for him to see. The men with the red armsbands are taking Baba to a difference labor camp because of his ideas. Will Tai Shan ever see him Baba again?
Red Kite, Blue Kite is a book that can be read on two distinctly different levels. First and foremost, it is a beautifully written story about the strong relationship and bond that exist between a father and his son, a bond so strong nothing can break it, not even separation. It would be an excellent book for any child that has suffered and had to cope with separation from a parent for any reason.
The political aspects of the story are never really spelled out, since this is a story are told from Tai Shan's point of view, understood as a child would understand political events going on around them. For example, the treatment of dissidents like Baba is not really spelled out, but it is there if it is wanted as a history/cultural lesson.
Complementing the text are Greg Ruth's realistically detailed watercolor illustrations. Here, too, the political aspects of the story have been kept in the background by giving them a rather shadowy effect, while the more colorful elements of the illustrations, placed at the forefront, focus on Tai Shan and/or Baba.
I have to agree with what Pamela Paul wrote in her February 20, 2013 NY Times review of Red Kite, Blue Kite: [It] offers narratively strong, visually arresting and moving examples of why and how picture books can convey with immediacy and resonance the impact of profound historical events." I couldn't have said this any better, and completely agree with it.
Just imagine the lesson plans you could come up with using historical fiction picture books.
This book is recommended for readers age 5+
This book was provided by the publisher
This review was first published on Randomly Reading
Red Kite, Blue Kite is a picture book that begins just before takes the Cultural Revolution in China that occurred during the 1960s. Tai Shan and his Baba (father) like to fly their kites from the rooftop of their home. Tai Shan's kite is red, his father's is blue. Kite flying is a special time for Tai Shan, because on the roof they feel free and Baba tells lots of stories.
"Then, a bad time comes." Tai Shan's school is closed and he is sent to live with a farmer when his father is sent to a labor camp. Granny Wang is good to Tai Shan, but he still dreams of being back home with his Baba and their kites. But, at least, Baba can visit every Sunday, walking the long distance so they can be together and fly their kites.
One Sunday, Baba tells Tai Shan he will not be able to visit for a while. He tells Tai Shan to fly his red kite every morning and Baba will answer this by flying his blue kite in the evening. It will be their secret signal.
But one day, Baba tells Tai Shan he will not be able to fly his blue kite anymore. He gives it to Tai Shan and tells him to fly both of them for him to see. The men with the red armsbands are taking Baba to a difference labor camp because of his ideas. Will Tai Shan ever see him Baba again?
Red Kite, Blue Kite is a book that can be read on two distinctly different levels. First and foremost, it is a beautifully written story about the strong relationship and bond that exist between a father and his son, a bond so strong nothing can break it, not even separation. It would be an excellent book for any child that has suffered and had to cope with separation from a parent for any reason.
The political aspects of the story are never really spelled out, since this is a story are told from Tai Shan's point of view, understood as a child would understand political events going on around them. For example, the treatment of dissidents like Baba is not really spelled out, but it is there if it is wanted as a history/cultural lesson.
Complementing the text are Greg Ruth's realistically detailed watercolor illustrations. Here, too, the political aspects of the story have been kept in the background by giving them a rather shadowy effect, while the more colorful elements of the illustrations, placed at the forefront, focus on Tai Shan and/or Baba.
I have to agree with what Pamela Paul wrote in her February 20, 2013 NY Times review of Red Kite, Blue Kite: [It] offers narratively strong, visually arresting and moving examples of why and how picture books can convey with immediacy and resonance the impact of profound historical events." I couldn't have said this any better, and completely agree with it.
Just imagine the lesson plans you could come up with using historical fiction picture books.
This book is recommended for readers age 5+
This book was provided by the publisher
This review was first published on Randomly Reading
Read
April 24, 2015Title: Red Kite, Blue Kite
Primary
1. Reflection: Text to Text, Text to Self, Text to World connection with the book.
Text to World connection: This book is about a young boy, Tai Shan, and his father who fly kites together during China’s Cultural Revolution. Tai Shan’s father, Baba, is sent to a labor camp and can only visit on Sunday’s at first and then not at all. When he is unable to visit, Baba tells Tai Shan to fly his red kite in the morning and he will fly his blue kite at sunset so they can still share that special time. Then, Baba escapes to see Tai Shan before he is transferred to a labor camp much farther away. Baba gives his son the blue kite so he can fly the kites together. When Baba returns, everyone is flying red and blue kites symbolizing freedom. It makes me think about all of the turmoil oversees in various countries causing parents to be taken from their children or vise versa. How it must feel to be ripped away from your family. How you must struggle to hold on to any connection to those you love such as the red and blue kites. How it must feel to return after days, weeks, months, even years. How we are fortunate here in the United States that our government does not ransack our homes, put us in camps, etc. simply because we do not have the same beliefs.
2. Does the book expose children to multiple perspectives and values? Provide specific examples from the text to support your response.
Ji-li Jiang does an excellent job of presenting this dark period in history for a younger audience without making them fearful. The book enlightens the reader to unfortunate circumstances of communist China families had to endure during China’s Cultural Revolution. It is written through the voice of a young boy, Tai Shan, and the illustrations show his sadness, but also the love his father has for him. When Baba is taken away to a labor camp, Tai Shan tells of their loving relationship and the creative way he and his father communicate during their separation. Each has a kite, one red, one blue, they fly high to send messages of love and hope to each other.
3. Write six discussion questions using all six stages of Bloom’s Taxonomy.
Remembering – Where does Tai Shan’s father go?
Understanding – Describe what happened before Baba was taken to labor camp.
Applying – Do you know of another instance where parents and children were separated or placed into camps? Explain.
Analyzing – What is the function of the kites? Explain.
Evaluating – How would you feel if your loved one was taken away to an unknown place for an unknown amount of time?
Creating – Your loved one is taken to a camp across town. How could you creatively communicate with them as Tai Shan and Baba did with the red and blue kites?
Primary
1. Reflection: Text to Text, Text to Self, Text to World connection with the book.
Text to World connection: This book is about a young boy, Tai Shan, and his father who fly kites together during China’s Cultural Revolution. Tai Shan’s father, Baba, is sent to a labor camp and can only visit on Sunday’s at first and then not at all. When he is unable to visit, Baba tells Tai Shan to fly his red kite in the morning and he will fly his blue kite at sunset so they can still share that special time. Then, Baba escapes to see Tai Shan before he is transferred to a labor camp much farther away. Baba gives his son the blue kite so he can fly the kites together. When Baba returns, everyone is flying red and blue kites symbolizing freedom. It makes me think about all of the turmoil oversees in various countries causing parents to be taken from their children or vise versa. How it must feel to be ripped away from your family. How you must struggle to hold on to any connection to those you love such as the red and blue kites. How it must feel to return after days, weeks, months, even years. How we are fortunate here in the United States that our government does not ransack our homes, put us in camps, etc. simply because we do not have the same beliefs.
2. Does the book expose children to multiple perspectives and values? Provide specific examples from the text to support your response.
Ji-li Jiang does an excellent job of presenting this dark period in history for a younger audience without making them fearful. The book enlightens the reader to unfortunate circumstances of communist China families had to endure during China’s Cultural Revolution. It is written through the voice of a young boy, Tai Shan, and the illustrations show his sadness, but also the love his father has for him. When Baba is taken away to a labor camp, Tai Shan tells of their loving relationship and the creative way he and his father communicate during their separation. Each has a kite, one red, one blue, they fly high to send messages of love and hope to each other.
3. Write six discussion questions using all six stages of Bloom’s Taxonomy.
Remembering – Where does Tai Shan’s father go?
Understanding – Describe what happened before Baba was taken to labor camp.
Applying – Do you know of another instance where parents and children were separated or placed into camps? Explain.
Analyzing – What is the function of the kites? Explain.
Evaluating – How would you feel if your loved one was taken away to an unknown place for an unknown amount of time?
Creating – Your loved one is taken to a camp across town. How could you creatively communicate with them as Tai Shan and Baba did with the red and blue kites?
October 22, 2013
This story is set in China during the Chinese Revolution from 1966 to 1977. Tai Shan and his father, Baba, love to stand on the roof of their home and fly kites because it makes them feel free. They are alone since Tai Shan's mother died after he was born. One day some men in red armbands come to their town. They shut down schools and destroy some of the town. They also take a lot of the men to labor camps including Tai Shan's father. Tai Shan has to go live with a woman named Granny Wang near the labor camp. Tai Shan misses his father very much and they come up with a plan for Tai Shan to fly his red kite in the morning and Baba will fly his at night so they can "see each other every day". Soon his father is sent away to different camp because of his ideas and although he knows his father won't be able to see his kite, he continues to fly it every day until his father is finally free.
This story was inspired by the author's friends father who survived the Revolution. I was very moved by this story. I think the bond between the father and son are amazing and what they do to stay connected through this terrible time. The affection is clearly shown in their facial expressions and actions. The illustrations are watercolor and pencil and very detailed. The stark contrast of the red and blue kite flying over the darker colors of the land is uplifting and makes you feel like they are free.
This would be a great story to read before starting research on China. Students can compare and contrast what they find out about China during that time period and how authentic the book is. Student could also write about how they feel when a loved one has maybe gone away on a trip and what they do to stay connected.
This story was inspired by the author's friends father who survived the Revolution. I was very moved by this story. I think the bond between the father and son are amazing and what they do to stay connected through this terrible time. The affection is clearly shown in their facial expressions and actions. The illustrations are watercolor and pencil and very detailed. The stark contrast of the red and blue kite flying over the darker colors of the land is uplifting and makes you feel like they are free.
This would be a great story to read before starting research on China. Students can compare and contrast what they find out about China during that time period and how authentic the book is. Student could also write about how they feel when a loved one has maybe gone away on a trip and what they do to stay connected.
February 7, 2017
Read on You Tube.
Red kite blue kite
Tai Shan and his father, Baba, fly kites together from roof tops in China during the Cultural Revolution. Baba tells stories to his son as they watch their kites rise, dip, and soar together. Tai Shan’s kite is red and Baba’s kite is blue. Then, men with red arm bands, come smash store signs, search houses, and close the schools. They take men away to work at labor camps. Baba is one of them. Since Tai Shan’s mother died, he was sent to live with Granny Wang.
There is a forest between the labor camp and Granny Wang’s. Baba visits Tai Shan on Sundays. They fly their kites together and feel free. On one Sunday visit, Baba tells Tai Shan that he cannot come visit for a while. However, Baba comes up with a secret signal so they can commutate with each other until Baba is free again, like the kites. Not hearing from his father, Tai Shan is worried if he will see his father again.
The illustrations in this book are beautiful. They depict historically accurate images of China during this time. The color of these images is mostly understated except for the red and blue kites which accentuate the message of this story. While the reader may have limited background knowledge of this subject, the story will connect the reader to universal themes
I listened to this story read wonderfully and emotionally by Brenda Lee on You Tube. I decided to also get the book to read along while taking in the beautiful illustrations. This led to a deeper understanding of the story. The author, Ji-Ji Jiang, includes a note at the end to give background knowledge of the Cultural Revolution in China.
Red kite blue kite
Tai Shan and his father, Baba, fly kites together from roof tops in China during the Cultural Revolution. Baba tells stories to his son as they watch their kites rise, dip, and soar together. Tai Shan’s kite is red and Baba’s kite is blue. Then, men with red arm bands, come smash store signs, search houses, and close the schools. They take men away to work at labor camps. Baba is one of them. Since Tai Shan’s mother died, he was sent to live with Granny Wang.
There is a forest between the labor camp and Granny Wang’s. Baba visits Tai Shan on Sundays. They fly their kites together and feel free. On one Sunday visit, Baba tells Tai Shan that he cannot come visit for a while. However, Baba comes up with a secret signal so they can commutate with each other until Baba is free again, like the kites. Not hearing from his father, Tai Shan is worried if he will see his father again.
The illustrations in this book are beautiful. They depict historically accurate images of China during this time. The color of these images is mostly understated except for the red and blue kites which accentuate the message of this story. While the reader may have limited background knowledge of this subject, the story will connect the reader to universal themes
I listened to this story read wonderfully and emotionally by Brenda Lee on You Tube. I decided to also get the book to read along while taking in the beautiful illustrations. This led to a deeper understanding of the story. The author, Ji-Ji Jiang, includes a note at the end to give background knowledge of the Cultural Revolution in China.
April 18, 2015
“Red Kite, Blue Kite” by Ji-li Jiang is a powerful story between a boy and his father. It shows the strong connection one can make with a parent when growing up. Something as simple as flying a kite keeps a son and father connected. I believe this would be a wonderful book to incorporate into children’s reading. That is because it allows students to have a perspective of a different culture. Not only does it teach about Chinese history and culture, it can relate to students who grow up in a single-parent home. It can also relate to students who live with grandparents.
Though “Red Kite, Blue Kite” has tragic events in it, it is powerful and has a happy ending. First when reading this book I could not believe that this was a children’s book. Due to the events that take place. But thinking about the perspective it shows, I realized that this book could be good for American Students. This is because I believe that American students are “sheltered”. Since the book talks about war and work camps, I do not believe a lot of parents would want to read it to their child. However, with the patience of the young boy and the symbolism of the kites, I found this to be a very enjoyable book.
Though “Red Kite, Blue Kite” has tragic events in it, it is powerful and has a happy ending. First when reading this book I could not believe that this was a children’s book. Due to the events that take place. But thinking about the perspective it shows, I realized that this book could be good for American Students. This is because I believe that American students are “sheltered”. Since the book talks about war and work camps, I do not believe a lot of parents would want to read it to their child. However, with the patience of the young boy and the symbolism of the kites, I found this to be a very enjoyable book.
August 13, 2017
Red Kite, Blue Kite is based on a true story: that of the author's family friend who is the little boy of Tai Shan. It is truly a testament to the beauty and resilience of the human spirit, especially when you realize that this really did happen. Greg Ruth's illustrations further add to the emotion of the story, picking up human expression and feeling where words fail. This could be the first step of a reading ladder toward books like Red Scarf Girl also by Ji-Li Liang and Revolution is Not a Dinner Party by Ying Chang Compestine. The author's note at the end of the book gives just enough information to fill in some knowledge gaps for young readers, but is also vague enough that will compel students to read further about this era in world history, which is when a teacher can swoop in and show them books like Red Scarf Girl.
In addition, Red Kite, Blue Kite could also be a mentor text to discuss symbolism with students since the red kite and blue kite clearly represent the relationship between the father and son.
Read the rest of my review on my blog
In addition, Red Kite, Blue Kite could also be a mentor text to discuss symbolism with students since the red kite and blue kite clearly represent the relationship between the father and son.
Read the rest of my review on my blog
March 26, 2024
Red Kite, Blue Kite is a touching story of the unconditional love of a father that will make you cry! In this book, we are first introduced to Tai Shan, the main character, and his father, who he calls Baba. We are introduced to their adorable pastime and bonding activity, which is flying kites together. Tai Shan always has the red kite, and Baba has the blue kite. We are suddenly hit with reality when the Cultural Revolution happens in China, and Baba is sent away to a labor camp. Tai Shan moves to live closer to his father and lives with a farmer woman named Granny Wang. Showing how much Baba loves his son, he walks from the labor camp to see Tai Shan once a week. Of course, with every visit, they do their favorite pastime of flying kites. During one visit, Baba reveals that he won’t be able to visit anymore, but they can fly their kites every day so they will still be able to communicate with each other, even with their disheartening distance. Worryingly, Baba’s kite doesn’t appear for a few days, and Tai Shan begs Granny Wang to let him visit his father. Then, seeming like a dream, Baba comes back, but he is not there to visit. He ran back to say goodbye to Tai Shan because he was being sent off to a farther labor camp. The part that broke my heart was when Baba gave Tai Shan his blue kite telling him to fly the kites together, and that he would be looking at the same sky thinking of his son. Baba gets taken away forcefully by the men with the red armbands. After a few months, Tai Shan is flying the kites and dozing off in the field. When he opens his eyes, he sees his friends around him also with red and blue kites. Among all of Tai Shan’s friends and all the kites, Baba is there to reunite with his son, and they are finally together again. A major theme in this book is that the love of a parent is truly self-sacrificial and unconditional. Baba truly loved his son and always put him first. This is shown throughout the book because Baba left the labor camp and walked all the way just to visit his son every week. When he was going to be taken away, he didn’t care if he got in any more trouble and ran all the way to see his son one last time. Additionally, Tai Shan’s mother had died during childbirth and this just shows that it really was just the father and son in their little family – they only had each other. Another major theme from this book is that of staying strong during adversity. Baba was able to stay strong during his visits and even would tell stories and do magic tricks in front of Tai Shan’s friends, acting like everything was okay. When Baba was being taken away, he also was able to stay tough because he was reassuring his son that he would come back. Additionally, Tai Shan was also strong during this hard time because when his father was taken at first, he was able to still look at the bright side of things. He learned how to ride a water buffalo, braid a straw grasshopper, and spin cotton. When his father was taken away to the new camp, he even tried to run after his Baba. Perhaps due to having such a strong and loving father figure, Tai Shan has shown that he too can be strong during difficult times. The main genre of this book is historical fiction. Children reading this book could learn about the Cultural Revolution in China because they can imagine themselves in the position of Tai Shan and having to be separated from their parents during these times, and this can also help teach a child empathy. Additionally, children reading this book can learn and appreciate how much their parents do for them and love them. Baba truly loved Tai Shan with all his heart and was willing to sacrifice anything for his son, so children could understand that their own parents could have that same love for them. This book was a WOW book for me because it truly touched my heartstrings and made me appreciate my parents. The themes of this story were so powerful and really spoke to me. I was on the edge of my seat the whole time because I was scared that Baba was never going to reunite with his son. The love that Baba has for his son is so evident, and this story is just very heartwarming and tear-jerking.
A writing craft technique that the author used to enhance the quality of the writing in this book was when she kept repeating the line “We are above, but still under, neither here nor there. We are free, like the kites.” This line is repeated 3 times throughout the book – in the beginning, the middle, and the end. This helped to enhance the quality of the book because it reminded me of how far they had come in their story. They went from having a peaceful time bonding with each other to being separated during the Cultural Revolution to finally being reunited and together at the end. Another writing craft technique that helped to enhance the quality of Red Kite, Blue Kite was the use of a kite as a symbol of the duo. Specifically, in the line, “The sky above us is filled with kites – red and blue . . . they are free, flying everywhere.” This is the very last line of the book, and it is the perfect way to end their story. Just like the kites, they are finally reunited and free, able to “fly” anywhere. I would consider this book to be an anti-bias book because it is based on the true story of the author’s family friend who had gone through this with his father during China’s Cultural Revolution. Additionally, the author of this book, Ji-Li Jiang, is a part of the same culture as the characters, so she wouldn’t have written the characters in any stereotypical way.
A writing craft technique that the author used to enhance the quality of the writing in this book was when she kept repeating the line “We are above, but still under, neither here nor there. We are free, like the kites.” This line is repeated 3 times throughout the book – in the beginning, the middle, and the end. This helped to enhance the quality of the book because it reminded me of how far they had come in their story. They went from having a peaceful time bonding with each other to being separated during the Cultural Revolution to finally being reunited and together at the end. Another writing craft technique that helped to enhance the quality of Red Kite, Blue Kite was the use of a kite as a symbol of the duo. Specifically, in the line, “The sky above us is filled with kites – red and blue . . . they are free, flying everywhere.” This is the very last line of the book, and it is the perfect way to end their story. Just like the kites, they are finally reunited and free, able to “fly” anywhere. I would consider this book to be an anti-bias book because it is based on the true story of the author’s family friend who had gone through this with his father during China’s Cultural Revolution. Additionally, the author of this book, Ji-Li Jiang, is a part of the same culture as the characters, so she wouldn’t have written the characters in any stereotypical way.
March 26, 2013
A poignant story about a father and son separated during China's Cultural Revolution.
December 3, 2024
In many parts of the world today, persecution and oppression still run rampant. Even throughout history, freedom has never been free in cost. In Red Kite, Blue Kite, we meet a father, Baba and son, Tai Shan in China who connect with each other by flying kites, specifically one blue and one red kite. Suddenly, after the Chinese Cultural Revolution, Baba was taken away to work at a labor camp and Tai Shan was left to live with an old lady on a farm, Granny Wang. Baba tries his best to preserve his relationship with his son by visiting him once a week but soon plans start to change. He comes up with an idea when working becomes more restrictive on his visits involving the son flying a blue kite and him flying a red kite in response. They will fly them together to communicate and make sure the relationship is still alive. One day, Baba doesn’t answer back and Tai Shan starts to worry. A surprise visit from Baba gives him the opportunity to explain to his son that he will not be able to answer from now on but tries to give Tai Shan hope by instructing him to fly both kites until he is suddenly taken away from his son once again. Distraught, Tai Shan asks Granny Wang why he was taken away and she explains to him that because of a difference in ideologies, Baba was prevented from communicating with Tai Shan as often. After many days of flying both kites, eventually Baba returns to his son and rekindles their relationship once again. The major themes in the book were preserving family relationships and freedom with the kites flying in the sky representing free nature and Baba fighting through struggles and oppression to reconnect his family relationship with his son. The main genre of this book is historical fiction. Through reading this book, I learned about the sacrifices a parent is willing to make for their child and the hardships Chinese people went through during the Communist revolution. This book was a WOW book for me because it emphasized the importance of family and persevering for freedom in a situation where people were oppressed for their different ideologies.
Two of the literary devices the author used in writing this book were motifs of the kites to represent the relationship between Baba and his son and personification to portray the kites as free flying in the air and a subtle symbol of hope as a direct opposite to the situation put upon them. The author portrayed anti-bias perspectives in this book expressing a realistic reaction a Chinese family would have to the sudden change of the Cultural Revolution and the dramatic effect it would have on relationships.
Two of the literary devices the author used in writing this book were motifs of the kites to represent the relationship between Baba and his son and personification to portray the kites as free flying in the air and a subtle symbol of hope as a direct opposite to the situation put upon them. The author portrayed anti-bias perspectives in this book expressing a realistic reaction a Chinese family would have to the sudden change of the Cultural Revolution and the dramatic effect it would have on relationships.
May 4, 2023
Red Kite, Blue Kite is a historical fiction children’s book written by Ji-li Jiang, and illustrated by Greg Ruth. This book tells the story of a young boy named Tai Shan, and his father who are living in China during a time of political upheaval and repression. Despite the challenges the two face, Tai Shan and his father find comfort in their shared love of kite-flying. A major theme in this book is the importance of hope, resilience, and the power of human connection in the face of adversity. Two concepts that I was specifically touched by were resilience and the connection made between Shan and his father, with their neighbor. This story serves as a great inspiration on how to cope with difficult situations. Despite the challenges Tai Shan’s family was facing, his kite served as a symbol of positivity and hope. I thought the message about the strength of human connection was powerful. In a time of despair, supporting and helping others in difficult circumstances can result in more healing, rather than turning against them. This became a WOW book for me because I found that the message is not only inspiring to children, but that it has the power to touch readers of ALL ages.
The author, Ji-li Jiang, does a wonderful job incorporating literary devices such as symbolism, foreshadowing, and contrast. The kite serves as a strong symbolism of hope, freedom, and the ability to overcome obstacles. Kite-flying was the character’s way of finding peace throughout their troubles. Foreshadowing was displayed to indirectly warn the reader that danger could be coming. Lastly, the book uses contrast to put emphasis on the completely different settings. The two settings swapped between Tai Shan’s peaceful, kite-flying life, to the chaos and violence happening around him. This contrast allows the story to feel deep and personal, while also teaching the reader there’s power in finding beauty in chaos. Jiang did a wonderful job in portraying Chinese individuals as multidimensional characters who have unique identities, experiences, and emotions. Red Kite, Blue Kite was a powerful story.
The author, Ji-li Jiang, does a wonderful job incorporating literary devices such as symbolism, foreshadowing, and contrast. The kite serves as a strong symbolism of hope, freedom, and the ability to overcome obstacles. Kite-flying was the character’s way of finding peace throughout their troubles. Foreshadowing was displayed to indirectly warn the reader that danger could be coming. Lastly, the book uses contrast to put emphasis on the completely different settings. The two settings swapped between Tai Shan’s peaceful, kite-flying life, to the chaos and violence happening around him. This contrast allows the story to feel deep and personal, while also teaching the reader there’s power in finding beauty in chaos. Jiang did a wonderful job in portraying Chinese individuals as multidimensional characters who have unique identities, experiences, and emotions. Red Kite, Blue Kite was a powerful story.
February 5, 2020
I located this book using the Database of Award-Winning Children’s Literature (DAWCL.com). Based on a true story about a boy and his father during China’s Cultural Revolution, this moving picture book beautifully captures the power that hope can have on people during hard times. At such times, small things, like red and blue kites, come to represent something precious.
Tai Shan and his father, Baba, loved to fly kites together from the roof of their home in their crowded city. Then bad times come and the schools are closed. Baba is sent to a labor camp and Tai Shan is sent to life in a small village with Granny Wang. Both Tai Shan and his father continue to fly their kites, using them as a signal to one another and a way to maintain contact.
This picture book will be best understood by older children. I feel that this story is very universal. The use of kites as imagery of freedom and connection works particularly well. Jiang writes in prose that is filled with the emotion of the time. He writes with deep compassion and doesn’t shy away from the pain that fills Tai Shan’s days separated from his father. Ruth’s illustrations capture the mood of the story very effectively. He moves from bright golds and oranges in the city to the dull colors of khaki and earth when the two are separated. The color scheme is only alleviated by the pop of color from their kites.
With a memorable story and lovely illustrations, this picture book gives readers an experience that they will remember long after the last page is read. Red Kite, Blue Kites looks at families that are torn apart by war and the haunted times they spend apart from one another.
Tai Shan and his father, Baba, loved to fly kites together from the roof of their home in their crowded city. Then bad times come and the schools are closed. Baba is sent to a labor camp and Tai Shan is sent to life in a small village with Granny Wang. Both Tai Shan and his father continue to fly their kites, using them as a signal to one another and a way to maintain contact.
This picture book will be best understood by older children. I feel that this story is very universal. The use of kites as imagery of freedom and connection works particularly well. Jiang writes in prose that is filled with the emotion of the time. He writes with deep compassion and doesn’t shy away from the pain that fills Tai Shan’s days separated from his father. Ruth’s illustrations capture the mood of the story very effectively. He moves from bright golds and oranges in the city to the dull colors of khaki and earth when the two are separated. The color scheme is only alleviated by the pop of color from their kites.
With a memorable story and lovely illustrations, this picture book gives readers an experience that they will remember long after the last page is read. Red Kite, Blue Kites looks at families that are torn apart by war and the haunted times they spend apart from one another.
April 22, 2020
This book is about the China Cultural Revolution and it is told from the main character’s Tain Shan’s point of view. Tain Shan and his father, Baba each have their own kites. Tai Shan describes how they feel free when they fly their kites from their triangle roof. Then a terrible thing happens, people wearing red armbands take Babba with them and send him to a labor camp. Tai Shan goes to live with his Granny Wang since his mom died when he was born. His father goes to see Tain Shan every Sunday until he stops visiting. Even though they are far apart, their way of staying close to each other is flying their kites as a secret signal. The story ends with Baba coming back home and the sky is filled with kites. It was a sad story, but with a good ending. When I read the book, I sensed the story dark and loneliness. I liked the ending in which the boy saw his father and the kites were flying everywhere. The story showed a strong bond between the son and the father no matter what. The illustrations look like they are done by using watercolors. Through the illustrations, you can see how the boy looks sad when he is separated from his father. In the illustrations, the red kite and blue kite flying stands out over the dark colors. In a way it makes you feel like they are free and beautiful just flying in the sky. This is a great way to introduce kids to important events such as the China Cultural Revolution. We can also have students write how they feel when their loved one is separated from them and what they do to stay connected.
Want to read
October 31, 2022In this book Tai Shan and his father named Baba fly kites from the top of their roof. Unfortunately, Baba is sent away and Tai Shan soon lives with Granny Wang but everyday they greet each other by flying their red and blue kites. The primary genre of this book is historical fiction because it describes times during the Chinese Revolution. One of the things I learned from this book is that friends and family can still be connected to each other without being physically present. One of the themes in this story is to cherish your loved ones. This book is considered a WOW book because it contains a theme and talks about a historical event that happened in the past. The story is not biased and helps readers in the classroom learn something new.
One of the authors writing/literacy crafts is explaining and describing the Chinese Revolution through a story of a young boy who misses his father. By using a young character it appeals to young students in the classroom. These young students can then relate to this story because there could be a loved one that they do not see often and begins to miss them. This book is free of bias because it does not contain any stereotypes or political views. The pictures and use of the red and blue kite also helps keep students engaged.
One of the authors writing/literacy crafts is explaining and describing the Chinese Revolution through a story of a young boy who misses his father. By using a young character it appeals to young students in the classroom. These young students can then relate to this story because there could be a loved one that they do not see often and begins to miss them. This book is free of bias because it does not contain any stereotypes or political views. The pictures and use of the red and blue kite also helps keep students engaged.
Read
April 23, 2024This book tells the story of a young boy named Tai Shan and his father, Baba, who are separated when Baba is sent to a labor camp for his political beliefs. Despite the distance between them, Tai Shan and Baba find ways to stay connected through the exchange of red and blue kites. The major themes in the book are resilience, hope, and the power of love. The main genre is historical fiction. Through reading this book I think children can learn the importance of not giving up even if the circumstances are hard and to have hope even when it feels like there is none. This book was WOW for me because it was very moving and inspirational.
Some literary devices used by the author include the use of metaphors to convey complex ideas and emotions. For example, Baba tells Tai Shan that he is like the string of a kite, connecting them even when they are apart physically. This metaphor illustrates the enduring bond between father and son. Along with metaphors the author also utilizes flashbacks to provide insight into the characters' pasts and to explain the historical context of the Cultural Revolution. These flashbacks deepen the reader's understanding of the characters and their motivations. I would consider this book to be anti-biased because it shows the different cultures and hardships, promoting open-mindedness.
Some literary devices used by the author include the use of metaphors to convey complex ideas and emotions. For example, Baba tells Tai Shan that he is like the string of a kite, connecting them even when they are apart physically. This metaphor illustrates the enduring bond between father and son. Along with metaphors the author also utilizes flashbacks to provide insight into the characters' pasts and to explain the historical context of the Cultural Revolution. These flashbacks deepen the reader's understanding of the characters and their motivations. I would consider this book to be anti-biased because it shows the different cultures and hardships, promoting open-mindedness.
April 6, 2023
Red Kite, Blue Kite is a historical fiction children's literature picture book by Ji-li Jiang. It is a story about a young boy who's father is taken to a labor camp during the Chinese Cultural Revolution. HE is separated by his son who lives with his Grandmother, but use the kites as a way to show their love for each other even when they are far apart. Reading this book educated me more on the Cultural revolution in China, as I wasn't aware that families were separated by the labor camps. I also learned about life during that time period in China, where ideas were suppressed and people were held captive for speaking against the government.
I think this book does a very good job at being anti-bias as it educates people on a topic they (children from the US/Europe) may not know much about already. It is a touching story, and introduces the subject poetically, making children connect to and feel empathy for the main characters. Overall I liked the book, but it was definitely very sad and requires maturity in order to understand the book and the seriousness of it.
I think this book does a very good job at being anti-bias as it educates people on a topic they (children from the US/Europe) may not know much about already. It is a touching story, and introduces the subject poetically, making children connect to and feel empathy for the main characters. Overall I liked the book, but it was definitely very sad and requires maturity in order to understand the book and the seriousness of it.
January 22, 2022
As a Chinese, I am touched a lot by this book. The book introduces us to the love between the son and father in the darkest period in China, which is the Cultural Revolution. The relationship between the father and dad was connected with two kites, which also represent freedom to the Chinese people who were suffering from the Cultural Revolution. The author of the book is the insider, and I was the insider as the reader as well. Although I was familiar with the history in China, I was not the "mirror" but still the "window" because there are still moving stories I don't among the Cultural Revolution time. To be the one between "mirror" and " window" should be the best for students because the knowledge they process is equivalent to the content in the book, but also leave them the place of thinking.
February 13, 2015
Red Kite, Blue Kite was selected as it fits the historical fiction theme, plus, it has the elements of firm family bonds and sacrifice during a time of war. The beauty is that, once again, the human longings are so familiar; yet, the war and country are different.
Remind the students we are still reading historical fiction with the elements of hardships of war, family bonds, sacrifice of others, and changes or transitions that occur as a result of war.
Opening:
Show the students the kite you brought in (a real kite) then say, "Here we have a toy, an item that provides entertainment, a piece of sports equipment perhaps.....a kite! Thumbs up if you have ever flown a kite? Think of one or two sentences that describes that experience. Think hard. Keep it at a sentence or two."
Allow the students to share orally with the class.
Hopefully someone will say they flew a kite with someone in their family or a close friend. Then, explain that Tai Shan flies his red kite while his dad flies the blue kite. Read the first page and show the illuminated illustration (beautiful sunrise with father and son flying their kites together, side by side) to the class. Read, "I love to fly kites. Baba and I fly our kites from the tippy-top of our triangle rook. We are free, like the kites." Explain that the last sentence is an example of foreshadowing. "We are free, like the kites." Explain that foreshadowing is called a literary device that the author uses to give us a hint of the upcoming events.
Opening Moves:
*Prompt brief sharing of personal experiences related to the topic or theme.
*Raise interest with a topic or theme.(Bringing in a kite.)
*Read some of the text to engage attention.
*Foreshadow the problem of the story.
Rational for this book choice and connections with other books in this text set:
Red Kite Blue Kite was not one of the books I was looking for when I came across it at the Omaha Public Library. However, as soon as I read it, I was moved by the love of this little boy and his daddy. I have little boys (now big boys), so I understood the tender heart of a little boy. Just as in I Will Come Back To You: A Family in Hiding During WWII, the boy is taken care of by a grandmother figure while the father is taken to a work camp by the government because he is not abiding by the philosophy of the government. Another interesting connection is that this book and my first book, Inside Out and Back Again both occur during the same time frame, mid-1960's to the mid-1970's, in Asian countries (Vietnam during the Vietnam War and China during the Chinese Revolution-both fighting a communist regime).
After reading:
It was a delight for me to see that I could use a picture book to explore such advanced concepts (war, communism, human rights) in a way that an upper elementary student can understand and find relevant. Perhaps additional books and research in each of these topics would be interesting to the students.
I noticed the kites were personified when the writer wrote, "They hop and giggle and cheer as they rise and dive, soaring and lunging together. The are free, flying everywhere." Another great lesson.
Lastly, I would have them continue to add to a four-columned chart with facts from each of my four books. I would ask the students look closely at the commonalities in each human experience.
Remind the students we are still reading historical fiction with the elements of hardships of war, family bonds, sacrifice of others, and changes or transitions that occur as a result of war.
Opening:
Show the students the kite you brought in (a real kite) then say, "Here we have a toy, an item that provides entertainment, a piece of sports equipment perhaps.....a kite! Thumbs up if you have ever flown a kite? Think of one or two sentences that describes that experience. Think hard. Keep it at a sentence or two."
Allow the students to share orally with the class.
Hopefully someone will say they flew a kite with someone in their family or a close friend. Then, explain that Tai Shan flies his red kite while his dad flies the blue kite. Read the first page and show the illuminated illustration (beautiful sunrise with father and son flying their kites together, side by side) to the class. Read, "I love to fly kites. Baba and I fly our kites from the tippy-top of our triangle rook. We are free, like the kites." Explain that the last sentence is an example of foreshadowing. "We are free, like the kites." Explain that foreshadowing is called a literary device that the author uses to give us a hint of the upcoming events.
Opening Moves:
*Prompt brief sharing of personal experiences related to the topic or theme.
*Raise interest with a topic or theme.(Bringing in a kite.)
*Read some of the text to engage attention.
*Foreshadow the problem of the story.
Rational for this book choice and connections with other books in this text set:
Red Kite Blue Kite was not one of the books I was looking for when I came across it at the Omaha Public Library. However, as soon as I read it, I was moved by the love of this little boy and his daddy. I have little boys (now big boys), so I understood the tender heart of a little boy. Just as in I Will Come Back To You: A Family in Hiding During WWII, the boy is taken care of by a grandmother figure while the father is taken to a work camp by the government because he is not abiding by the philosophy of the government. Another interesting connection is that this book and my first book, Inside Out and Back Again both occur during the same time frame, mid-1960's to the mid-1970's, in Asian countries (Vietnam during the Vietnam War and China during the Chinese Revolution-both fighting a communist regime).
After reading:
It was a delight for me to see that I could use a picture book to explore such advanced concepts (war, communism, human rights) in a way that an upper elementary student can understand and find relevant. Perhaps additional books and research in each of these topics would be interesting to the students.
I noticed the kites were personified when the writer wrote, "They hop and giggle and cheer as they rise and dive, soaring and lunging together. The are free, flying everywhere." Another great lesson.
Lastly, I would have them continue to add to a four-columned chart with facts from each of my four books. I would ask the students look closely at the commonalities in each human experience.
December 8, 2015
Plot Summary and Personal Response: Tai Shan and his father use to get away from the busy city in China. They use to fly kites and Tai Shan’s dad use to tell him stories. They loved their time together. However, when the Cultural Revolution came, people wearing arm bands use to search people’s houses, shut down schools, and ruin businesses. One day Tai Shane’s father was taken away to a labor camp. Tai Shan could not cope very well with the idea that his father was not going to be around. So, his father promised him to see each other every day by flying kites. Less and Less he was able to see his father until one day he saw so many kites in the sky and realized his father was finally home. I loved this story because it goes to show how strong a father’s love can be towards his children. This book made me cry happy tears.
Literary Merit: One feature of the story is the way the author tells the story or the style. The author has a way of making your heart warm. For example, there was a period where Tai Shan did not see his father fly his kite for days, and he got so worried and sad. His father ran away from the labor camp just to go see his son. “He couldn’t fly his kite for three days because they locked him up. But he escaped and ran all the way here. He wanted to see you before he left. He had to.” Is what his grandmother had told him in order to explain what had happened. It is so beautiful to know that a father would run away to go see his child. Another feature are the pictures. They are so beautifully drawn. You can clearly see the happy times and the sad times. The colors are beautiful, rich and warm.
Genre Consideration: This book’s genre is a Historical fiction that is a great example of multicultural literature. The author is Chinese and he wanted to write about a time in history that his culture experienced. The setting is drawn in a way that represents China very well. For example, certain parts of China has a lot of trees and nature. Also, the houses have a Chinese look to them that is very elegant. In the pictures you can see that the characters are clearly Asians and they wear clothes that they wore back in those time.
Reader Response/Classroom Connections: I think that students will respond well to this book especially those who have fathers that are involved in their lives. This will definitely appeal to Asian children. One way that this book can be used is to study China’s history. Another way you can use this book is to study the Chinese culture. Another way to use this book is to study nature because a good chunk of this book deals with being in the mountains and flying kites where there’s a lot of space. Also, in science students can learn about air and wind through flying their own kites.
Awards:
2013 Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2013 Junior Library Guild Selection, 2013-2014 Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature in the Picture Book, CCBC Choices 2014, the Cooperative Children's Book Center (CCBC)'s annual best-of-the-year list.
Literary Merit: One feature of the story is the way the author tells the story or the style. The author has a way of making your heart warm. For example, there was a period where Tai Shan did not see his father fly his kite for days, and he got so worried and sad. His father ran away from the labor camp just to go see his son. “He couldn’t fly his kite for three days because they locked him up. But he escaped and ran all the way here. He wanted to see you before he left. He had to.” Is what his grandmother had told him in order to explain what had happened. It is so beautiful to know that a father would run away to go see his child. Another feature are the pictures. They are so beautifully drawn. You can clearly see the happy times and the sad times. The colors are beautiful, rich and warm.
Genre Consideration: This book’s genre is a Historical fiction that is a great example of multicultural literature. The author is Chinese and he wanted to write about a time in history that his culture experienced. The setting is drawn in a way that represents China very well. For example, certain parts of China has a lot of trees and nature. Also, the houses have a Chinese look to them that is very elegant. In the pictures you can see that the characters are clearly Asians and they wear clothes that they wore back in those time.
Reader Response/Classroom Connections: I think that students will respond well to this book especially those who have fathers that are involved in their lives. This will definitely appeal to Asian children. One way that this book can be used is to study China’s history. Another way you can use this book is to study the Chinese culture. Another way to use this book is to study nature because a good chunk of this book deals with being in the mountains and flying kites where there’s a lot of space. Also, in science students can learn about air and wind through flying their own kites.
Awards:
2013 Notable Social Studies Trade Books for Young People, 2013 Junior Library Guild Selection, 2013-2014 Asian/Pacific American Award for Literature in the Picture Book, CCBC Choices 2014, the Cooperative Children's Book Center (CCBC)'s annual best-of-the-year list.
March 18, 2018
"Red Kite, Blue Kite" by Ji-li Jiang is a beautiful story of love between father and son set against the backdrop of the Communist Revolution in China. Tai Shan loves to fly kites with his father. Tai Shan has a small red kite and his father has a large blue kite. One day his father is taken away to prison and Tai Shan is sent to live with his Grandmother near the prison. Every morning Tai Shan flies his ted kite to let his father know he is doing well. Every evening Tai Shan's father does the same with his blue kite. Eventually, Tai Shan's father is released and they can fly their kites together again. The setting in communist China is essential to the plot and is beautifully rendered through the paintings of Greg Ruth. This story is full of hope in a difficult situation. The book is a beautiful story for children that introduces them to the importance of kites in China and shows the strong bond of family love in any culture.
March 19, 2018
Historical picture book: Red Kite, Blue Kite, By: Ji-li Jiang
This was my favorite book! It is a reading level of K-3rd. The images are beautiful, they go with the dialogue. The vocabulary is great. Red Kite, Blue Kite is also a sad story, the symbolic of the kite was really heartwarming. This book also has an author’s note on the back witch gives the reader a brief history about the story. I would definitely recommend this book! It is a great story!
This was my favorite book! It is a reading level of K-3rd. The images are beautiful, they go with the dialogue. The vocabulary is great. Red Kite, Blue Kite is also a sad story, the symbolic of the kite was really heartwarming. This book also has an author’s note on the back witch gives the reader a brief history about the story. I would definitely recommend this book! It is a great story!
Read
April 29, 2014Red Kite, Blue Kite by Ji-li Jiang and illustrated by Greg Ruth, is a story of a little boy, Tai Shan and his father, Baba and their love for flying kites. Jiang and Ruth tell the story of the boy's everyday life through beautiful illustrations as he yearns for his father's return.
Text-to-Self: This book reminds me of myself just when I think about the times I used to fly my kite on beautiful days after church on Sundays. Of course the wind has to be just perfect to fly a kite so it never lasted very long. It also reminds me about the times I would wait for my father's return but for my brother's return from college. I also wondered what he was doing day to day while he was away at school. Growing up I was used to him always being around for family events that happened often, he also was the character of the group that made everyone smile. Events often seemed dull when he wasn't able to attend.
Text-to-Text: This book reminded me of a story called "Flying the Dragon" by Natalie Dias Lorenzi. Set after WWII, Loreniz wraps her story around kite fighting and two cousins. Hiroshi, a boy from Japan and Skye a hapa girl (half Japanese/half Caucasian) in Washington, D.C. are living through a family feud. In kite fighting, you have to know when to loosen the line to keep the kite afloat just as it seems like it’s going to fall out of the sky. Skye and Hiroshi’s grandfather knows that balance, in life and in kite fighting. By moving to D.C. for cancer treatments, the grandfather has a chance to repair his relationship with Skye’s dad, whose marriage to a non-Japanese woman caused the family feud. Skye too must learn to “loosen the line.” She’s caught between having to help her cousin navigate his way through a new school, learning both English and American customs, while also resenting him. Still, she cherishes spending time with Grandpa and learning about kite fighting which ultimately reunites the family. Although each story incorporates the Asian heritage differently, both characters reunite with their families through the art of kites.
Text-to-World: Greg Ruth's illustrations of Tai Shen's life during the Cultural Revolution in China captures a kaleidoscope of emotions that children may relate to in their own lives. For children who are waiting to be reunited with their families, this book helps remind them that they are not alone and other children have experienced it too. I think this story would be a great read to incorporate into any curriculum about cultures, history, and family.
Text-to-Self: This book reminds me of myself just when I think about the times I used to fly my kite on beautiful days after church on Sundays. Of course the wind has to be just perfect to fly a kite so it never lasted very long. It also reminds me about the times I would wait for my father's return but for my brother's return from college. I also wondered what he was doing day to day while he was away at school. Growing up I was used to him always being around for family events that happened often, he also was the character of the group that made everyone smile. Events often seemed dull when he wasn't able to attend.
Text-to-Text: This book reminded me of a story called "Flying the Dragon" by Natalie Dias Lorenzi. Set after WWII, Loreniz wraps her story around kite fighting and two cousins. Hiroshi, a boy from Japan and Skye a hapa girl (half Japanese/half Caucasian) in Washington, D.C. are living through a family feud. In kite fighting, you have to know when to loosen the line to keep the kite afloat just as it seems like it’s going to fall out of the sky. Skye and Hiroshi’s grandfather knows that balance, in life and in kite fighting. By moving to D.C. for cancer treatments, the grandfather has a chance to repair his relationship with Skye’s dad, whose marriage to a non-Japanese woman caused the family feud. Skye too must learn to “loosen the line.” She’s caught between having to help her cousin navigate his way through a new school, learning both English and American customs, while also resenting him. Still, she cherishes spending time with Grandpa and learning about kite fighting which ultimately reunites the family. Although each story incorporates the Asian heritage differently, both characters reunite with their families through the art of kites.
Text-to-World: Greg Ruth's illustrations of Tai Shen's life during the Cultural Revolution in China captures a kaleidoscope of emotions that children may relate to in their own lives. For children who are waiting to be reunited with their families, this book helps remind them that they are not alone and other children have experienced it too. I think this story would be a great read to incorporate into any curriculum about cultures, history, and family.
August 12, 2016
Red Kite, Blue Kite by Ji-li Jiang and illustrated by Greg Ruth, is a story of a little boy, Tai Shan and his father, Baba and their love for flying kites. Jiang and Ruth tell the story of the boy's everyday life through beautiful illustrations as he yearns for his father's return.
Text-to-Self: Ji-li Jiang's story of Tai Shan reminded me of the countless refugee stories I have been told by my parents and relatives. The experiences of the boy in the story were quite similar to the ones my family members had encountered while escaping the Vietnam War. They did not know how or when they would be reunited as they fled for freedom. My family is very near and dear to my heart that I could relate to the boy wanting his father to come home. Even as an adult now, I always wonder when my father will return home from his business trips and pray that nothing goes wrong.
Text-to-Text: This book reminded me of a story called "Flying the Dragon" by Natalie Dias Lorenzi. Set after WWII, Loreniz wraps her story around kite fighting and two cousins. Hiroshi, a boy from Japan and Skye a hapa girl (half Japanese/half Caucasian) in Washington, D.C. are living through a family feud. In kite fighting, you have to know when to loosen the line to keep the kite afloat just as it seems like it’s going to fall out of the sky. Skye and Hiroshi’s grandfather knows that balance, in life and in kite fighting. By moving to D.C. for cancer treatments, the grandfather has a chance to repair his relationship with Skye’s dad, whose marriage to a non-Japanese woman caused the family feud. Skye too must learn to “loosen the line.” She’s caught between having to help her cousin navigate his way through a new school, learning both English and American customs, while also resenting him. Still, she cherishes spending time with Grandpa and learning about kite fighting which ultimately reunites the family. Although each story incorporates the Asian heritage differently, both characters reunite with their families through the art of kites.
Text-to-World: Greg Ruth's illustrations of Tai Shen's life during the Cultural Revolution in China captures a kaleidoscope of emotions that children may relate to in their own lives. For children who are waiting to be reunited with their families, this book helps remind them that they are not alone and other children have experienced it too. I think this story would be a great read to incorporate into any curriculum about cultures, history, and family.
Text-to-Self: Ji-li Jiang's story of Tai Shan reminded me of the countless refugee stories I have been told by my parents and relatives. The experiences of the boy in the story were quite similar to the ones my family members had encountered while escaping the Vietnam War. They did not know how or when they would be reunited as they fled for freedom. My family is very near and dear to my heart that I could relate to the boy wanting his father to come home. Even as an adult now, I always wonder when my father will return home from his business trips and pray that nothing goes wrong.
Text-to-Text: This book reminded me of a story called "Flying the Dragon" by Natalie Dias Lorenzi. Set after WWII, Loreniz wraps her story around kite fighting and two cousins. Hiroshi, a boy from Japan and Skye a hapa girl (half Japanese/half Caucasian) in Washington, D.C. are living through a family feud. In kite fighting, you have to know when to loosen the line to keep the kite afloat just as it seems like it’s going to fall out of the sky. Skye and Hiroshi’s grandfather knows that balance, in life and in kite fighting. By moving to D.C. for cancer treatments, the grandfather has a chance to repair his relationship with Skye’s dad, whose marriage to a non-Japanese woman caused the family feud. Skye too must learn to “loosen the line.” She’s caught between having to help her cousin navigate his way through a new school, learning both English and American customs, while also resenting him. Still, she cherishes spending time with Grandpa and learning about kite fighting which ultimately reunites the family. Although each story incorporates the Asian heritage differently, both characters reunite with their families through the art of kites.
Text-to-World: Greg Ruth's illustrations of Tai Shen's life during the Cultural Revolution in China captures a kaleidoscope of emotions that children may relate to in their own lives. For children who are waiting to be reunited with their families, this book helps remind them that they are not alone and other children have experienced it too. I think this story would be a great read to incorporate into any curriculum about cultures, history, and family.
August 6, 2013
I first came across this book at Non Fiction Monday event hosted by a group of children's literature bloggers. Perogyo's lovely blog featured "Red Kite Blue Kite" as a celebration for Father's Day this year. And since reading her review on the book, I have been waiting to read it myself.
"Red Kite, Blue Kite" is a story of a little boy, Tai Shan and his father, Baba and their love for flying kites. Their Red and Blue kites bob up and down, backwards and forwards. From the rooftops, the city looks small, the people look like ants. Up in the sky the kites fly free. Up on the rooftops, Tai Shan feels free. As they fly their kites, Baba tells Tai Shan stories.
But hard times are coming. The Cultural Revolution sweeps the country. Tai Shan's school is shut down and he sees people wearing red armbands everywhere. Families are broken. Tai Shan is separated from his father.
Baba is sent to a labor camp and Tai Shan has to go live with a granny near the labor camp. Fortunately, Baba comes to visit Tai Shan every Sunday and then they climb the hills, fly their kites and forget about their worries. Baba tells Tai Shan stories that make him proud.
But soon things get worse and Baba is not able to visit Tai Shan anymore. As Tai Shan looks to the sky and flies his Red Kite every day, he wonders when he will be able to see his Baba again.
This is a beautiful poignant tale of family, a tale about parent and child bonding. The setting is a dark one, the Chinese Cultural Revolution was a time when millions of people were persecuted and a large number of population was displaced. But "Red Kite Blue Kite" focuses on hope, on optimism. It introduces an important event in history through Tai Shan's point of view. Ji-li Jiang's narrative is simple yet strong. Written in first person from Tai Shan's point of view is an amazing way to engage an early reader into the tale.
Greg Ruth's pen and watercolor illustrations feature realistic depiction of the events. The images keep the strong negative events in the background, highlighting the more positive aspects or emotions in the foreground.
It is easy to see why this book deserves merit. Whether you read it because it is a powerful tale about a father and son bond, or because it is about a historic event, you will be moved.
"Red Kite, Blue Kite" is a story of a little boy, Tai Shan and his father, Baba and their love for flying kites. Their Red and Blue kites bob up and down, backwards and forwards. From the rooftops, the city looks small, the people look like ants. Up in the sky the kites fly free. Up on the rooftops, Tai Shan feels free. As they fly their kites, Baba tells Tai Shan stories.
But hard times are coming. The Cultural Revolution sweeps the country. Tai Shan's school is shut down and he sees people wearing red armbands everywhere. Families are broken. Tai Shan is separated from his father.
Baba is sent to a labor camp and Tai Shan has to go live with a granny near the labor camp. Fortunately, Baba comes to visit Tai Shan every Sunday and then they climb the hills, fly their kites and forget about their worries. Baba tells Tai Shan stories that make him proud.
But soon things get worse and Baba is not able to visit Tai Shan anymore. As Tai Shan looks to the sky and flies his Red Kite every day, he wonders when he will be able to see his Baba again.
This is a beautiful poignant tale of family, a tale about parent and child bonding. The setting is a dark one, the Chinese Cultural Revolution was a time when millions of people were persecuted and a large number of population was displaced. But "Red Kite Blue Kite" focuses on hope, on optimism. It introduces an important event in history through Tai Shan's point of view. Ji-li Jiang's narrative is simple yet strong. Written in first person from Tai Shan's point of view is an amazing way to engage an early reader into the tale.
Greg Ruth's pen and watercolor illustrations feature realistic depiction of the events. The images keep the strong negative events in the background, highlighting the more positive aspects or emotions in the foreground.
It is easy to see why this book deserves merit. Whether you read it because it is a powerful tale about a father and son bond, or because it is about a historic event, you will be moved.
November 19, 2017
Summary
This story is mainly about a boy and his father during the Cultural Revolution in China between 1966 and 1977. When the boy was born, his mother passed away so he grew up with his father. The boy and his father love flying kites together, but one day his father is taken to a labor camp to work and the boy is taken care of by his grandmother. Every weekend, his father comes to visit and they fly their kites together again. However, one day his father tells him that he will be away for a long time and that the boy should continue to fly his kite while the father is gone. At the end of the book, the boy's father comes back. He is thin and tired, but he is home again with his son.
Major themes
Love between parent and child, hope, and what it could be like living during the Cultural Revolution in China
Personal response
This book was very emotional to read for me. It contained beautiful illustrations that truly enhanced the message and enabled the reader to connect to its’ story. I have not read about the Cultural Revolution in China before, but this story inspired me to find out more. Since I have not found many children picture books about this happening in China, this book and its’ message is even more important. It works as a window that opens up new perspectives and stories of others that many people, including myself, might not have heard of before, or know much about.
Why I recommend this book
This book enables readers whatever age, to connect to the story. It makes you interested in the subject since it tells the story of the boy and his father in a beautiful and emotional way. The book does not tell much about the Cultural Revolution, instead it shows what consequences it had for some families during this time in history. For this reason, it makes the reader connect to the boy and his father, but it also makes the reader interested in finding out more. Due to that, reading this in the classroom would be a good way to introduce this historical event. It also enables the students to gain more knowledge and insights of new stories and perspectives that they did not know much about before.
This story is mainly about a boy and his father during the Cultural Revolution in China between 1966 and 1977. When the boy was born, his mother passed away so he grew up with his father. The boy and his father love flying kites together, but one day his father is taken to a labor camp to work and the boy is taken care of by his grandmother. Every weekend, his father comes to visit and they fly their kites together again. However, one day his father tells him that he will be away for a long time and that the boy should continue to fly his kite while the father is gone. At the end of the book, the boy's father comes back. He is thin and tired, but he is home again with his son.
Major themes
Love between parent and child, hope, and what it could be like living during the Cultural Revolution in China
Personal response
This book was very emotional to read for me. It contained beautiful illustrations that truly enhanced the message and enabled the reader to connect to its’ story. I have not read about the Cultural Revolution in China before, but this story inspired me to find out more. Since I have not found many children picture books about this happening in China, this book and its’ message is even more important. It works as a window that opens up new perspectives and stories of others that many people, including myself, might not have heard of before, or know much about.
Why I recommend this book
This book enables readers whatever age, to connect to the story. It makes you interested in the subject since it tells the story of the boy and his father in a beautiful and emotional way. The book does not tell much about the Cultural Revolution, instead it shows what consequences it had for some families during this time in history. For this reason, it makes the reader connect to the boy and his father, but it also makes the reader interested in finding out more. Due to that, reading this in the classroom would be a good way to introduce this historical event. It also enables the students to gain more knowledge and insights of new stories and perspectives that they did not know much about before.
May 4, 2013
Red Kite, Blue Kite is a lovely story that takes place during the Cultural Revolution in China. Tai Shan loves to fly kites from the rooftop with his father, Baba. Tai Shan’s is red and Baba’s is blue.
One day, Baba is arrested: "Then, a bad time comes. My school is shut down. Soon all the schools are shut down. People wearing red armbands smash store signs and search houses. Men and women are sent to labor camps to work. Baba is one of them.”
Fortunately, Baba’s camp is not too far away, and for a while he can visit every Sunday. When he is no longer allowed to leave the camp, he proposes to Tai Shan that he fly his red kite every morning, and Baba will answer with his blue kite at sunset. Tai Shan loves the idea of sharing a secret signal, and flies his red kite in the morning:
"Before sunset, I go back to the hill and climb the elm tree. I wait and wait. Finally, Baba’s blue kite sways into the white clouds. The kite waves at me and whispers, ‘Here I am, my son.’”
But one day Baba’s kite doesn’t appear, and Tai Shan finds out Baba must be transferred far away. Baba now asks Tai Shan to fly both kites every day: "When you fly our kites, know that I am looking at the same sky and thinking about you.”
Tai Shan flies the kites, and is happy: "I smile with hope. Baba is watching. He is with me. We are above but still under, neither here nor there. We are free, like the kites.”
Finally, one sunny afternoon, Baba returns, and everyone in the village celebrates by flying kites.
Evaluation: I have to admit I was scared reading this book, because, having an adult’s knowledge of China during the Cultural Revolution, I was not optimistic! But the author based this story on the actual experience of a family friend whose father did survive. And I think most children will not be predisposed to be as pessimistic as I! For innocent children, this is a beautiful story of familial love and hope, and Greg Ruth’s ink-and-watercolor illustrations are very appealing.
Rating: 4.5
One day, Baba is arrested: "Then, a bad time comes. My school is shut down. Soon all the schools are shut down. People wearing red armbands smash store signs and search houses. Men and women are sent to labor camps to work. Baba is one of them.”
Fortunately, Baba’s camp is not too far away, and for a while he can visit every Sunday. When he is no longer allowed to leave the camp, he proposes to Tai Shan that he fly his red kite every morning, and Baba will answer with his blue kite at sunset. Tai Shan loves the idea of sharing a secret signal, and flies his red kite in the morning:
"Before sunset, I go back to the hill and climb the elm tree. I wait and wait. Finally, Baba’s blue kite sways into the white clouds. The kite waves at me and whispers, ‘Here I am, my son.’”
But one day Baba’s kite doesn’t appear, and Tai Shan finds out Baba must be transferred far away. Baba now asks Tai Shan to fly both kites every day: "When you fly our kites, know that I am looking at the same sky and thinking about you.”
Tai Shan flies the kites, and is happy: "I smile with hope. Baba is watching. He is with me. We are above but still under, neither here nor there. We are free, like the kites.”
Finally, one sunny afternoon, Baba returns, and everyone in the village celebrates by flying kites.
Evaluation: I have to admit I was scared reading this book, because, having an adult’s knowledge of China during the Cultural Revolution, I was not optimistic! But the author based this story on the actual experience of a family friend whose father did survive. And I think most children will not be predisposed to be as pessimistic as I! For innocent children, this is a beautiful story of familial love and hope, and Greg Ruth’s ink-and-watercolor illustrations are very appealing.
Rating: 4.5
October 20, 2018
"Red Kite, Blue Kite" is such a great book. This book focuses on the Cultural Revolution in China and a young boy and his father. One of the things that the young boy loved to do with his father was flying kites. They would fly their kites on the "tippy-top" of their roof. Here, they would feel as if they were flying with the kites.
During this revolution, men in red arm bands came and took the boy's father away. When this occurred, the boy was taken to a woman who was known as Granny Wang. He would live with her on her farm, as it was close to where his father was taken to work. In order to communicate with his father, the young boy flew his red kite, while the father flew his blue kite. This form of communication is quite important to the rest of the story.
This book and its illustrations are extremely beneficial in teaching culture and important events in history. Although it is a picture book, this is a book that can be used in a variety of grade levels. It can be used in high school or middle school to give greater depth to the Cultural Revolution in China, while it can also be used in elementary school to display the struggles that the young boy went through because he loved his father. Regardless, this book is very influential and is a key book to keep in any classroom library.
During this revolution, men in red arm bands came and took the boy's father away. When this occurred, the boy was taken to a woman who was known as Granny Wang. He would live with her on her farm, as it was close to where his father was taken to work. In order to communicate with his father, the young boy flew his red kite, while the father flew his blue kite. This form of communication is quite important to the rest of the story.
This book and its illustrations are extremely beneficial in teaching culture and important events in history. Although it is a picture book, this is a book that can be used in a variety of grade levels. It can be used in high school or middle school to give greater depth to the Cultural Revolution in China, while it can also be used in elementary school to display the struggles that the young boy went through because he loved his father. Regardless, this book is very influential and is a key book to keep in any classroom library.
Read
March 26, 2016Target Audience: Primary
Genre: Red Kite, Blue Kite is a historical fiction book because it takes place during the Cultural Revolution in China, but Tai Shan and his family are made up characters.
Text to text: This book reminds me of a book called Where is Jesus by Alan Parry. In Red Kite, Blue Kite, Tai Shan's father is taken to a concentration camp in a different town and he can no longer spend time with him. They come up with an idea to fly their kites everyday at the same time so that they can look up in the sky and know that the other is still there. Where is Jesus is all about knowing that Jesus is there and listening even though people cannot see him. Tai Shan had the symbol of a kite to remind him of his father's presence, and in Where is Jesus, the symbol to remind others of Jesus' presence is the bible.
Text to self: I can relate to this book because I lost my father to cancer when I was three years old. Although Tai Shan did not lose his father, there was a long period of time when he could not see his father and the only way they could communicate was through their kites. I just remember that when I could no longer see my dad, there was always one thing that reminded me of him and I held on to that for a long time. Much like Tai Shan and his kite.
Text to world: This book can relate to the world because there are probably a lot of American Asians whose ancestors have experienced the Cultural Revolution in China first hand and it would be a great way for them to understand what their family members went through. It could also relate to children who have lost a parent. Because it would serve as a remind that even though we cannot see our loved ones, they are always with us in our hearts.
Genre: Red Kite, Blue Kite is a historical fiction book because it takes place during the Cultural Revolution in China, but Tai Shan and his family are made up characters.
Text to text: This book reminds me of a book called Where is Jesus by Alan Parry. In Red Kite, Blue Kite, Tai Shan's father is taken to a concentration camp in a different town and he can no longer spend time with him. They come up with an idea to fly their kites everyday at the same time so that they can look up in the sky and know that the other is still there. Where is Jesus is all about knowing that Jesus is there and listening even though people cannot see him. Tai Shan had the symbol of a kite to remind him of his father's presence, and in Where is Jesus, the symbol to remind others of Jesus' presence is the bible.
Text to self: I can relate to this book because I lost my father to cancer when I was three years old. Although Tai Shan did not lose his father, there was a long period of time when he could not see his father and the only way they could communicate was through their kites. I just remember that when I could no longer see my dad, there was always one thing that reminded me of him and I held on to that for a long time. Much like Tai Shan and his kite.
Text to world: This book can relate to the world because there are probably a lot of American Asians whose ancestors have experienced the Cultural Revolution in China first hand and it would be a great way for them to understand what their family members went through. It could also relate to children who have lost a parent. Because it would serve as a remind that even though we cannot see our loved ones, they are always with us in our hearts.
May 1, 2014
Red Kite, Blue Kite by Ji-li Jiange is a great book that I would recommend to anyone. It is about a boy and father who find their own way of communicating even when they are separated. In the beginning they feel free and they can do anything and find a common hobby with flying kites from their roof. It is taken away when a bad time comes and then use flying kites as a way of communicating.
Text-Self: When reading this book when the boy and father were free at the beginning and able to fly kites from their roof and tell stories. This reminds me when me and my mom or me and my friends in our old house would go to the roof because it was right out of my room and would just go out there and lay of the rooftop at night and would just talk about anything that was going on in life. And even for myself when I just needed time to go away and think I would go out here and just think.
Text-Text: This book reminded me of two books one being "The Kite Runner" and the other one being "Flying the Dragon." Flying the dragon I can relate more to this book because in the book Skye had to give up a lot by moving here to the US and kind of just gave up on her dreams. Book is about kite fighting and cousins who moved to the US and during a family feud who use kite fight as a way to solve.
Text-World: The Illustrations in the Book give a good outlook on life during the China revolution and children all around could relate to the emotions that he shows. Also even thinking about adopted children or foster children reading this book it can give them a sense of hope of being reunited again.
Text-Self: When reading this book when the boy and father were free at the beginning and able to fly kites from their roof and tell stories. This reminds me when me and my mom or me and my friends in our old house would go to the roof because it was right out of my room and would just go out there and lay of the rooftop at night and would just talk about anything that was going on in life. And even for myself when I just needed time to go away and think I would go out here and just think.
Text-Text: This book reminded me of two books one being "The Kite Runner" and the other one being "Flying the Dragon." Flying the dragon I can relate more to this book because in the book Skye had to give up a lot by moving here to the US and kind of just gave up on her dreams. Book is about kite fighting and cousins who moved to the US and during a family feud who use kite fight as a way to solve.
Text-World: The Illustrations in the Book give a good outlook on life during the China revolution and children all around could relate to the emotions that he shows. Also even thinking about adopted children or foster children reading this book it can give them a sense of hope of being reunited again.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 177 reviews