THE HOUSE BABA BUILT: AN ARTIST’S CHILDHOOD IN CHINA by Ed Young

Review by Christi De Leon

BIBLIOGRAPHY

Young, Ed. The House Baba Built: An Artist’s Childhood in China. New York: Little, Brown Books for Young Readers, 2011. ISBN 0316076287

PLOT SUMMARY

This memoir tells the story of Ed Young’s childhood in the 1930’s when he lived in the house that his father built. Memories made in the house are shared throughout the story, although the war was taking place outside. Memories include spending time at the swimming pool, playing make-believe, skating on the roof, and listening to stories. The house built by Baba became a safe home for four families.

CRITICAL ANALYSIS

This book opens the door to Ed Young’s childhood home for the reader and captures a multidimensional perception of what life was like as a child during World War II in China. Young highlights his father’s architectural skills and portrays his parents’ overall dedication to the safety of others. The story also opens a window into many of Young’s fondest memories of all the children getting creative ideas and bonding with one another. Importantly, it also builds awareness of the challenges that were faced by families in China during this time. Despite the fact that the war was taking place, the house itself was filled with love and joyful memories. This book has an inviting feel to it and is highly educational, especially for older children.

The value of this oversized picture book goes way beyond the words. The illustrations are also quite captivating including a combination of photos, drawings, and collages. Ed Young’s illustrations showing the kids' imaginations come to life throughout the book are especially phenomenal. The use of foldout pages is also an engaging feature, particularly at the end when they celebrate the end of the war. The Chinese culture is exemplified through foods, dances, attire, and more. Additional insightful components at the end of the book includes a letter from Baba to his children, afterword information, a time line, a diagram of the house, an author’s note, and acknowledgements. Overall, this is nothing short of a really neat book filled with authenticity!

REVIEW EXCERPT(S)

From School Library Journal: “Young's father builds a house for his growing family and for others who join them. Against the background of World War II, the author shares childhood memories of changing seasons, raising silkworms, and picnicking by the pool. This oversize book with foldout pages is illustrated with photos, drawings, and collage. Includes a time line and a diagram of the house.”

CONNECTIONS

Gather other Ed Young books to read such as:

Lon Po Po: A Red-Riding Hood Story from China. ISBN 0698113829

Seven Blind Mice. ISBN 0698118952

Possible Activities:

Discuss possible connections between the students’ childhood experiences and Ed Young’s memories.

Allow students to draw a picture of the inside of their home.

Encourage students to research World War II in China.