Luli and the Language of Tea

Written by Andrea Wang · Illustrated by Hyewon Yum

A tea party unites children who speak different languages.

4.4 Goodreads · 916 ratings

40 pages· ~600L

$18.99Save 5%

In stock. Also at Amazon or Bookshop.

Bookroo's summary

In a quiet ESL classroom, five-year-old Luli can't speak English, nor can her classmates. She has a brilliant idea: a tea party. As Luli calls out 'Chá!' in Chinese, her classmates respond in their languages, from Russian to Swahili. Tea becomes their shared language, breaking barriers and sparking friendships. When the tea is gone, Luli joyfully uses her favorite English word, 'cookie,' and the room fills with laughter. Discover how a simple cup of tea can connect diverse cultures and create lasting bonds.

From the publisher

Though they may speak different languages, kids from all over the world come together to enjoy the shared pastime of tea in this delicious book for young readers. When five-year-old Luli joins her new English as a Second Language class, the playroom is quiet. Luli can’t speak English, neither can anyone else. That’s when she has a brilliant idea to host a tea party and bring them all together. Luli removes her teapot, thermos, and teacups from her bag and calls out “Chá!” in her native Chinese. One by one, her classmates pipe up in recognition: in Russian, Hindi, Turkish, Persian, Arabic, and Spanish, Portuguese, and Swahili. Tea is a tasty language they all know well, and it gives them a chance to share and enjoy each other’s company. When all the tea is gone and it’s time for dessert, Luli gets to use her favorite English word, cookie! After that, the playroom isn’t so quiet. Informed by her own experience as the child of Chinese immigrant parents, Andrea Wang makes the point that when you’re looking to communicate with people, you look for a common bond. The word for “tea” is similar in many languages, and tea becomes the unifying metaphor that brings a diverse group of children together. Additional material at the back of the book explores the rich and ancient history of tea drinking across cultures all around the world and contains maps, statistics, and fascinating details that will delight young readers. An American Library Association Notable Children’s BookA Booklist Editors’ Choice SelectionA CSMCL Best Multicultural Children’s Book of the Year

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