THE GREAT CALL OF CHINA by Cynthea Liu (33 years in the making)

Behind-the-scenes info about the author and book the GREAT CALL OF CHINA for ages 12+. If you connect with this movie, share with friends or support the book by ordering at http://www.amazon.com/dp/0142411345/?tag=cynthealiu-20 or from your local bookstore. Thank you.

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[situ777]

And I actually teared up at the end. I hope to read more from you in the future, and good luck with your beautiful daughter! btw I've never heard of the Chinese version of the Cranberry's song, i like it =].

[markclan]

Thanks so much for your comments. Means a lot to me! (Yeah, I thought the Chinese version of the Cranberry's song was pretty sweet.  Wong Faye has some pretty amazing songs (original ones) too!

[cabbagemintor]

Your parents didn't teach you anything about your own heritage? Are you one of those ABCs who do not even speak a rudimentary form of Chinese? Your parents should at least teach you that.

[markclan]

Hi, thanks for responding. My parents did teach me a lot. The point made in the video is that when you grow up in an environment where your peers are mostly white, you really don't see yourself as anything different. (At least that was MY experience.) I can't speak for anyone else. It wasn't until I actually met teens my age who spoke Chinese in their everyday lives with friends, had Asian friends, etc, that I started to think more about my own ethnic identity.

How about you?

[situ777]

Luckily, I've been raised by parents that were a combination of CeCe's and Jessica's. They're loving but strict and is always reminding me of my culture. I was born in China as well but immigrated to Canada when i was five. Then two years later, I came to the U.S and have been here ever since. "The great Call of China," is one of the most accurate fictional books i've ever read depicting China and it's culture.

[situ777]

I just finished the book ten minutes ago! and then went to your website and found this video. As a Chinese teenager, I could really relate to this video and the book. Like you and Cece, i've been raised in pretty much an all white community.

[cabbagemintor]

I have 3 nieces born in England and they all speak fluent Cantonese. Though they went to a "white" elitist school, they have Chinese schoolmates and little friends. We teach them how to deal with racial prejudcie and be proud of being Chinese. Even at my age, I have to fight racial abuse every day. To honour your own heritage is a strength and I commend you for finding your own root and learn about the history of Chinese immigrantion to the US etc, and try to help others in the same boat.

[cabbagemintor]

I am of your parents' generation. I was in the States in the early 79s, and every darm ABCs I met did not deign to speak ANY Chinese and their parents were soooo keen to make them ALL AMERICAN, speaking to them in English exclusively. Raical attitude to Chinese had changed a lot since the 50s, and we were respected for our achievements etc. But I heard racism towards Asians have resurfaced, and with the economy going dowmhill, it will increase. How do you plan to raise your own children? tbc

[gseybold]

Great video Cynthea. Can't wait to get the book!

Greg

[taralaz]

This is a great video. Favorite part is the banana pancakes! And this song has been stuck in my head for days! (Although in the Cranberries version! LOL!)