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Our Map is a
heart-warming children's book that explores themes of friendship, heritage, and
the power of imagination and educates young readers about the importance of
cultural understanding and the value of creating new narratives. It is perfect
for families, educators, and anyone looking to inspire children to embrace
their heritage and appreciate the diverse world around them.
JJ's best friend, Lee, struggles with maps
because his parents, who were refugees, fled their homeland at a very young
age. Lee doesn’t know where his parents' country is and feels a sense of loss
and confusion. In a tender moment, JJ attempts to show Lee their home countries
on the map, highlighting the vast deserts of Australia, the beautiful national
parks of Bangladesh, and the immense Great Wall of China. However, Lee’s
parents' country is nowhere to be found on the map. This realisation prompts JJ
and Lee to understand that not all places are represented on traditional maps,
especially those lost to conflict and change. Lee's poignant story of his
parents' homeland, which had water, houses, animals, and playgrounds that
disappeared, underscores the transient nature of maps and the histories they
represent.
Determined to create something new and
meaningful, JJ suggests drawing a new map. With the help of their teacher, Miss
Young, and their classmates, JJ and Lee gather papers and markers to start
their creative project. Each child contributes drawings of their homes and
favourite places, from Clare’s family house in the Netherlands to Luke’s
townhouse and pizza. Lee sketches a playground and an old house, while JJ adds
a treehouse next to a botanic garden. Together, they assemble their drawings
into a unique map that reflects their diverse backgrounds and shared
experiences. This new map, unlike any other, becomes a symbol of their unity
and creativity. The children proudly hold up their new map, knowing that it
represents their identity and no one can take it away.
About the author
Angie Cui, also known as Yanting Cui, is a
Melbourne-based author passionate about children’s literature. Her work has
been featured in ABC Everyday, SBS Voices, The Guardian, and Sydney Morning
Herald. Born in Harbin, China, Angie moved to Australia at 18 and pursued a
career in banking before transitioning to office manager for the Children’s
Book Council of Australia VIC Branch. As an active member of CBCA VIC, SCBWI,
Writers Victoria, and ASA, Angie is dedicated to promoting literacy and
storytelling. She resides in Melbourne with her husband and two children,
embracing their multicultural heritage of Australian, Bangladeshi, and Chinese
roots. Angie crafts tales that celebrate diversity and cultural identity,
empowering children to find themselves in the stories they read.
