Words that bolster and build incentive to never give up. Never give in. Especially to the ravages and horrors of war.
One would think that stories centred around
this theme would be a thing of the past and yet, the plight of refugees displaced
by senseless conflicts remains a global concern to this day.
Powerful
Like a Dragon is
a compelling piece of storytelling based on award-winning author, Christopher
Cheng’s real-life family history. Caught in the grips of invasion in the midst
of World War II, many of Cheng’s extended family made the life-saving decision
to flee their homeland in Hong Kong and seek refuge in China.
The journey was long and treacherous. Debilitating weather conditions, arduous terrain and extreme shortages in food meant Cheng’s two young uncles at the time, were never far from death. Indeed, they witnessed it every day. And yet, with the words of his parents resounding in every breath, Cheng’s uncle, young Shu Lok remembers the power of the dragon.
In
addition to Cheng’s stirring lyrical narrative, Hong Kong native, Jacqueline
Tam’s illustrations elevate words and memories to another realm. Muted greys
and beiges belie hope, accentuating the bleak forlorn nature of the situation,
of peoples’ plights. Of their lack of choice. Except for one small boy.
Shu
Lok wears a tunic of burnt yellow, a visual reminder that hope burns bright if
one is careful to keep it from extinguishing. Despite the cramped conditions
little Shu Lok is forced to endure in the basket he is carried in along with
other relatives, his hope springs to vivid life one day in the form of a
dragon.
The
dragon is proud. Too proud to remain in the basket. The dragon is strong.
Strong enough to endure and judge wisely. The dragon is kind. Delivering
kindness in the most unpleasant circumstances to others in need. Until one day,
after following the flying dragons higher and higher into the mountain ranges,
Shu Lok and his family find a temporary new home; safe from hunger and cold and
invaders.
Powerful
Like a Dragon
reminds us all that some things are unchangeable but even in the midst of
misfortune and misery, salvation can be found, resilience forged and peace
attained. It is all a matter of perception and perseverance, like an all-powerful
dragon.
Title: Powerful Like A Dragon
Author: Christopher Cheng
Illustrator: Jacqueline Tam
Publisher: Roaring Brook Press imprint, Pan MacMillan Australia,
$34.99
Publication Date: 16 September 2025
Format: Hardcover
ISBN: 9781250829399
For ages: 7+
Type: Non-fiction Picture Book
