When it comes to history, picture books are a great way to introduce the subject. You are able to present the situation and/or issue and yet, keep it so that it gives the point of view without being “too much” and it allows all ages to be exposed to concepts, ideas and events. With Powerful Like a Dragon by Christopher Cheng and illustrator Jacqueline Tam we turn to 1941 Hong Kong during World War II and the Japanese invasion of the city. The story is based loosely on true events, which are how a young boy tells how he, family and some of the village escape to the mountains of China.
The story itself is familiar. We have seen immigrants and refugees fleeing home due to war or other issues beyond their control. We have seen families separated and how the journey to (hopefully) safety is hard, tiring, and can feel overwhelming. The narrator brings to life first their discomfort and their discomfort, but soon learns to realize privilege and sacrifice.
Not only does this come out in the text but also the lush illustrations create this as well. Both realistic and fantastical, the history and mythology come together to show how one person can make a difference, how we can help each other and take strength from the past, the ancestors and keeping the power of the dragons of lore inside of you; then using that to continue your journey. The colors are earthy, and not overly popping, but what is there is powerful and supports the magical elements of the journey. Newly available, I read the book a few days before the official release via an online reader’s copy.
