Paper Son

In 1919 nine-year-old Tyrus Wong assumes the identity of a merchant’s son for his father to smuggle him into the U.S. from China. In America Tyrus studies art and works for Disney Studios where he develops a unique method to animate the movie Bambi. Tyrus does not receive credit for this innovation and is ultimately fired after a strike, but he perseveres and continues with art throughout his life. This picture book would be suitable as a read-aloud to explore immigration policies, multiculturalism, class struggles, perseverance, talent, and opportunities. Older students could explore the treatment of Chinese immigrants in Canada, including the head tax on railway workers.