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Summary
Summary
Popo-who doesn't speak any English-is always there for Meimei whenever she needs an extra hand. They speak Mandarin Chinese at home, and Meimei picks up new words every day.
Today, Meimei feels like she can't do anything without Popo. But, in the face of a language barrier, maybe there's a way Meimei can help Popo, too. Here is a heart-warming and poignant intergenerational story touching on themes of dependence and independence that is about language, love, and the fact that actions ultimately speak loudest of all.
Reviews: (2)
Kirkus Review
A young girl and her grandmother help each other conquer the trials of their shared day. Meimei (Mandarin for little sister) is working to be independent, but she needs help pouring milk, putting on her jacket, and harvesting green onions. At every turn, her Popo (grandmother) is there to wipe up messes, offer a helping hand, and teach Meimei how to garden. Capable, kind Popo is always ready to offer encouragement and a new activity. "Cheer up!" she tells Meimei after a wheelbarrow spill. "Let's make dumpling soup." Though Meimei speaks in English and Popo in Mandarin, the two clearly understand each other. Later, the phone rings. When Popo answers, the English words pouring out of the receiver are illustrated as a scrambled, garbled mess. Seeing Popo's distress, Meimei realizes that it's her turn to be the helper. Bright cartoon illustrations and spare text effectively convey the affection and respect that these two have for each other, despite their language barrier. This sweet story offers an introduction to the immigrant experience while celebrating the love between a grandparent and a grandchild. Meimei and Popo's conversations appear as speech bubbles, with words in simplified Chinese characters, pinyin transliteration, and English. A moving tribute to the tender moments found in a bilingual, multigenerational household. (Picture book. 4-8) Copyright (c) Kirkus Reviews, used with permission.
Booklist Review
There's a distinctly playful irony in the presentation of Popo and Meimei Can Help, a book about language that contains so few words. Meimei's day begins with her grandmother's arrival: "pó po lái bāng nĭ," she announces, and an asterisk sends non-fluent readers searching for the English translation, "Popo is here to help you" in a small footnote. Meimei certainly needs help; she is small but determined and has some trouble getting herself dressed and fed. With Popo there to help, she is soon smiling and ready. Whenever Meimei fumbles or can't reach or drops something, Popo helps and comforts her. Meimei's facial expressions show that she feels bad about herself, but the tables soon turn. A phone call leaves Popo floundering in confusion and Meimei, fluent in English, steps in to help. Simple, cartoon illustrations complement the spare text, effectively communicating the message of love and intergenerational solidarity between Meimei and Popo.