As a group of avid readers in the LRP team we are very happy to have recently expanded our book offering online and in the showroom. We knew you would be interested in finding out more about some of the wonderful authors and illustrators who have created the ones we've selected. All books have a Hong Kong theme whether it be written or illustrated by someone who lives here or is about the city, the stories and the history of the place so many of us call home. We have created a series of Ask The Author blog posts where we ask the same three questions (with an added bonus one at the end!) to find out more about their connection to the city, what their book is all about, what inspires them and their favourite things to see and do in the 852.
About you
I'm from Hong Kong originally and studied and worked overseas before coming back to the city over 10 years ago. I'm now a mother of two and live on the south side of Hong Kong island with my family. Besides picture books, sustainability is another passion of mine and I work full time at an NGO that works on incorporating climate change into investments.
Emi Takes Hong Kong follows Emi around the city as he searches for the perfect present for mum. It is an exciting adventure story that can also be used as a travel guide- colorful map, quiz and picture glossary all included. With a fun search-and-find element on each spread, I've heard that children can come back to it again and again!
Your Inspiration
It all started when I was looking for books to read the little ones on our trips. Our kids started traveling to multiple cities early- my daughter visited Australia when she was two months old! I was always on the look-out for children’s books about the amazing cities we were visiting but struggled to find stories that my kids loved.
My children are picture book fans. I knew that a picture book story was the perfect way to capture their imagination and introduce them to a city. And there you have it- my idea for stories based in different Asian cities was born!
I wanted to write captivating picture book stories that double up as travel guides for young travelers. The books would also appeal to any curious young reader wanting to find out more about the cities and their cultures- whether it is their home town or not.
As a mum, my goal is to bring my children up to be happy, balanced and resilient. I also want them to be socially responsible global citizens. Traveling is important in providing exposure to different cultures, people and context about who we are and how we can play our parts.
Favourite thing to do or see in Hong Kong
All the sights in Emi Takes Hong Kong!
Our family is based on the south side, so we spend a lot of time hiking and going to beaches around here- our favorites are Big Wave Bay and Cape D'Aguilar!
What is/was your favourite thing to do with kids in Hong Kong?
My children are big foodies and huge fans of City Hall dim sum, which was a scene in the book!
You can find more about Jane on her website
