Reflection Two for The Five Chinese Brothers

Analysis Summary

The Five Chinese Brothers by Claire Huchet Bishop is a book that is offensive to people who identify as Chinese. In the book, the five brothers–as well as the rest of the people in the book–look exactly the same and have special powers, which is a stereotypical view of Chinese people. The illustration's heavy use of the color yellow reinforces the connection that Chinese people are yellow and when we see yellow we should be thinking about Chinese people. The use of certain phrases also adds to the reason why this book is problematic, it reinforces the negative stereotypes. It's offensive to people of Chinese culture and the overall message that it tells students is also misguiding leading them to think that they can do whatever they want with no repercussions if they are smart enough.

Impact Assessment

This text might impact my focal student by giving him a wrong impression about Chinese culture and people–as well as believing the negative stereotypes to be true. My focus student is Native American, loves to listen to audiobooks, and is a naive kid who loves to joke around. My fear is that if he reads this book he will believe that all Chinese people have narrow eyes, look the same, dress the same, and are literally yellow. This will negatively impact his beliefs and views of the Chinese culture/people instead of getting appropriate information from a book that appropriately represents and depicts Chinese culture/people.

Alternative Texts

One resource that can be utilized to teach children appropriate information and depictions of Chinese culture/people is National Geographic Kids - China. This website gives information about Chinese culture, history, and geography through media such as articles, videos, and other interactive resources.

One book that provides a different perspective on the subject matter is Dim Sum for Everyone by Grace Lin a picture book that exposes readers to Chinese culture and cuisine.

Guiding Questions

1. How is the context more culturally appropriate in Dim Sum for Everyone compared to The Five Chinese Brothers?
2. How does Dim Sum for Everyone depict Chinese culture and people compared to The Five Chinese Brothers?
3. Which book would you prefer to use in your classroom library and why?