ESEA issues, LGBT issues, entertainment, culture and everything in between
ESEA (East and Southeast Asian) representation has slowly improved in the US over the years, but still needs major improvement in the UK. How can this be turned around so Model Minority and other stereotypical characters and storylines are challenged and avoided, giving ESEA talent and creatives the opportunities to showcase what they can offer?
Renowned queer YA author Simon James Green’s latest and most personal novel “Boy Like Me” is a must-read for those who want a politically-charged and emotional story that highlights the realities of living through the Section 28 era.
British-Chinese children’s author Maisie Chan’s second children’s novel “Keep Dancing, Lizzie Chu” is a heartwarming and uplifting story about family ties and finding the fun in life again. Read my full review here.
“Sorry, Nenek” is another short story written by myself about a British-born half-Malaysian and half-Chinese gay man returning to Malaysia with his boyfriend. But how will his Malay grandma react to their visit? This short story is the first of two I will be posting here on Tan’s Topics this June for Pride Month.
Simon James Green is fast becoming a popular name in YA novels, especially those with an LGBTQ focus. He may cause some controversy in schools, but his passion and refusal to stop for visibility and making a change is admirable. His latest book, the politically-charged but still funny and emotional “Gay Club!” is perhaps is best effort yet. Read my full review of it here.
The first sequel to Sue Cheung’s latest series of book is “Maddy Yip’s Guide to Holidays”. This time Maddy tries to find something to keep her excited and occupied during the holidays but when she finds that something, of course mayhem and mishaps soon follow. Read my full review of this funny and relatable book here.
“A Tainted Love” is a short story about cross cultural identity and sexuality during the 1980s in the height of the AIDS pandemic.
LGBT+ History Month is coming up in February and is a topic I believe needs to be taught in the Early Years. With these 10 books that are perfect for young children to learn about LGBT+ history, people, rights and other issues, I hope you find it useful and inspiring as well as the books to be as lovely as I think they are.
Happy Chinese New Year of the Tiger! Chinese New Year is an extremely popular topic in school, particularly in EYFS, KS1 and KS2. Here some excellent, varied and creative activity ideas for you to try with your children as a teacher, parent or carer during this exciting and culturally enriching festival!
Celebrating 20 years since the release of “Harry Potter and the Philospher’s Stone” film, “Harry Potter 20th Anniversary: Return to Hogwarts” has been highly anticipated by Potterheads for a long time now. What revelations are revealed in the special? Where are some of the cast members? And why is the absence of J.K. Rowling so weird?
Tan's Topics 