Bilingual children’s book explores early Chinese-Canadian history

Ahead of Chinese New Year, which begins on Feb. 17, author of children’s book Ellie Awakens the Spirits of Tam Kung Temple wrapped up a three-day tour across nine elementary schools in the English Montreal School Board.

The dual-language English—French book celebrates Chinese-Canadian history and the 150th anniversary of Canada’s oldest Chinese temple.

Co-author Lori Wong visited St. Monica Elementary School in NDG and read the book to students on Thursday morning.

She opened the floor for discussion about early Chinese immigrant experiences and the cultural significance of the historic Tam Kung Temple, which is mainly of Taoist belief.

“The best way to describe a taoist: don’t fight the current of the river, go with the flow,” Wong said. 

Students had the opportunity to learn about historical events that shaped Chinese communities across Canada, including the Canadian Pacific Railway and the Chinese head tax.

Students also discussed the unique historical infrastructure in Victoria’s Chinatown, B.C., which is featured in the book—including the Tam Kung Temple’s iconic bright red door and its half-numbered address sign.

“I never knew there were half apartments and I learned a lot about Chinese history,” said Dario D’Amico, a grade 6 student.

For other grade 6 students, the topic of Chinese incense resonated most. “I learned how you’re able to communicate with your family on the other side of the world using incense and sending messages and blessings to other people even though you’re not with them,” said Shaleena Moore Ruth Lambert.

The book takes place in Victoria, B.C.’s Chinatown, where young Chinese protagonist Ellie, comes across the historic Tam Kung Temple. 

From the temple, Ellie discovers the spirits of Chinese Canadian pioneers, including sailors, gold seekers, and families. “Most people see the new Canadian Chinese, but they don’t understand that it was the pioneer Chinese that basically sold the way for them to come to Canada,” said Wong.

Ellie’s adventure in the Tam Kung Temple educates readers about the historical significance of spiritual spaces and what they offer. For many community members, the temple has been a place of comfort and belonging; early immigrants visited the space in the face of hardship and discrimination.

“Canada itself is a nation of immigrants and it’s important to tell your stories and where you came from—whether it’s the difficulties or the opportunities, and many Chinese found opportunities in Canada,” said Wong.

For Wong, this story has become a way to pass down Chinese heritage with her loved ones who’ve become disconnected from the culture since settling in Canada generations ago.

“Our family is 7th generation, they were no longer speaking Chinese. They weren’t connected to the culture,” said Wong.

The book was published by The Yen Wo Society, a Hakka-founded dialect association in Victoria, and was funded by the Government of Canada. 

Wong’s team has printed 1200 copies of the book to distribute to schools and libraries across Canada. 

Kong is preparing for the official book launch event at Tam Kung Temple on Feb. 16, as part of Family Day in Victoria, B.C.