Ying-Hwa Hu, Ten Blocks to the Big Wok, University of Queensland Press, February 2023, 32 pp., RRP $24.99 (hbk), ISBN 9780702266072
Ten Blocks to the Big Wok is a vibrant counting book. As readers follow Mia, Uncle Eddie and their new fur-friend to the Big Wok for dim sum, they will also learn to count to ten in both English and Mandarin!
Ying-Hwa Hu authentically captures Chinese tradition throughout the pages of the counting book. To focus on the counting, Hu’s writing creates a fun counting pattern delivered by Mia, an enthusiastic child who will resonate with young readers. In the corner of each page, a Chinese fan allows readers to also count along in mandarin, making counting even more fun. All numbers are brought to life with Hu’s vibrant water-colour images which will keep young audiences amused and eager to count what is on the next page.
Two stone lions, eight bright goldfish and ten red lanterns are just a few of my favourite pages in this picture book. I also loved that Hu described the symbolism behind each item illustrated throughout the story in the author’s note. I thoroughly enjoyed this mandarin counting book, as it is accurately representing the rich and lively Chinese culture. I would recommend this to any young reader as I am certain they will be mesmerised by the vivacious colours and be eager to count along.
Reviewed by Anna Tran
