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What People Are Saying

Jennifer Shaw was an amazing presenter! Students were actively engaged as she explained her writing process and the similarities and differences between American and Chinese culture. She truly connected with our kids, from kindergarten all the way to fifth grade!

Colleen Kochensparger, Library/Media Specialist, Slate Hill Elementary School

Dumplings Mean Family gives a voice to the experience of so many of our kids whose story isn’t always on our library shelves. It tells of the love, perseverance, and choices that transform individuals into family.

Chelsey Anglin, Media Specialist, Royal Manor Elementary School

Dumplings Mean Family shows the powerful love of family that wraps around the world and brings us all together.  A beautiful story that all ages will enjoy!

Megan Mott, Library Specialist, Bluffsview Elementary School

As an adoptee myself, Dumplings Mean Family is a rare treat, a story told from the perspective of the kids! Dumplings Mean Family captures the joy and complexity of becoming a family together.

Maya L., adult adoptee

A crucial part of preparing adoptive families for adoption is to ensure that the new child’s culture is respected, celebrated, and integrated into family life. This book goes far beyond a cooking lesson, and speaks volumes to a child about inclusivity and belonging.

Diana Bramble, Executive Director, Madison Adoption Associates

As an elementary educator, and an adoptive mama myself – I couldn’t LOVE this book more!  First and foremost, I love the reminder that even if our families look (or eat!) different, we are still a family.  The way acceptance and tolerance are shown through is so important for young readers.  I am always looking for quality stories to share with my class, and my own children, that place value on accepting and honoring our differences, and Dumplings Mean Family does this so very well.  And let’s not overlook the amazing illustrations in this book!  The stunning detail and the bright colors drew me in from the second I opened it.  I love that the text, AND the images are representative of “real life”.

Erin Bradshaw, first grade teacher and adoptive parent, Worthington Hills Elementary

Our students have been forever changed by the love you have for teaching others about your family and about Chinese culture. Your visit was fun, interesting, and kept the students thinking!

Kristyn Campbell, Library/Media Specialist, Mechanicsburg Exempted Village School District

Jennifer Shaw provided a captivating story about adoption and blending cultures into one family. It was a perfect presentation appropriate for our preschool aged students through fourth grade and numerous elementary students could relate to Jennifer’s experiences. One student even mentioned, ‘I got to meet a real author!’”

Mandy Wilburn, Principal, Lake Elementary School

Dumplings Mean Family is one of the most heartwarming books I’ve ever read. It’s so rare and refreshing to find a children’s book that discusses adoption along with the many joys and struggles it encompasses; Dumplings Mean Family did so perfectly! 非常好 (Well done!)!

Carole C., Adult Adoptee

What a special day for our students! Jennifer Shaw’s presentation was a fun and informative visit highlighting the ties between culture, food, and family. Her photos and videos helped bring the story to life and our students especially enjoyed hearing about her experiences in China. We’re so glad she came!

Mary Smith, Library Media Specialist, Liberty Elementary School

We have two boys adopted from China. This book does an amazing job illustrating how the small things we do as a family can celebrate and honor our childrens’ heritage through new family traditions.

Jaime V., Adoptive Mom

This heartwarming story about cultures coming together will bring both laughter and joy to readers. The characters and their journey are brought to life by the beautiful illustrations and words, and I felt as though I was sitting at their table with them! It is a must-have book for school and library shelves!

Ally Minister, EL Specialist, Bluffsview Elementary School

Our students and staff really enjoyed Jennifer’s visit! Students loved learning about Chinese culture and seeing so many pictures from China. I can’t keep Dumplings Mean Family on the shelves in the library!

Beth Bennington, Librarian, Buckeye Valley East Elementary

My sons are adopted from China and this book does a wonderful job of reflecting the experiences we have had learning to incorporate Chinese food and traditions in our family.  We can’t wait to try this new dumpling recipe!

Melissa E., Adoptive Mom