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亲恩难忘悼念慈母

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Sat, 09 Jul 2011 08:53:00 +0000

这篇日记写得不容意。三天前是妈妈的生日，但她却在六月十八日因病往生了。之前她因为癌痛到沒法好好地坐吃睡而入院十日接受治疗。医生估计妈妈还有两个月的寿命。当时我因先生长居在外国公干，早已按排我在假期带孩子们去探望他。其实我心里真的很不愿意过去，很难受。虽然天天都会打电话或传短讯给妹妹问她妈妈的情况，也落泪了几次，如今仍然还后悔没选择留在妈妈的身边，和爸爸妹妹一起一心一意，日日夜夜寸步不离，无微不至地守在她身旁照顾她，安慰她。

我和孩子们六月十三日回国后，便搬到娘家去。那时妈妈的情况日渐恶化，病情严重到不能饮食，不能说话，眼睛打不开，手脚发软，全身痛到极点，每几个小时就必须硬吞我们慢慢用注射器喂她的吗啡才能休息，实在辛苦到我們沒法形容。过后，她也开始发烧, 还有幻觉，半清醒状态。出院后没能马上找到善终护理和租到病床, 直到三四天后才有医生和护士来看她。我们不能把妈妈的痛苦拿走，又不能完全理解她的须要，真的不知如何让她好过些。

六月十五日那天，我为妈妈抹身，她突然说要冲凉。对我们来说很意外，因为她已很久没法没力坐着了。我们有些担心，但还是随她愿，那也是我们最后一次帮她从头到脚好好地梳洗一番。隔天后一些妹妹的好友和工作伙伴来探望妈妈，让她知到她可以放心安心，不必担心我们，由其是和她心心相印的妹妹。大家都安慰她，答应会好好照顾和爱护妹妹。我也一样会尽我一切能力去照顾爸爸，妹妹和两个孩子。我们看到妈妈的眼角含着掉不出的眼泪。

六月十八日早上，妈妈便离开人间。她临终前我们都在她身边。那天早上，她醒后我们马上喂她吃药，因为她那晚睡了蛮久，止痛药一定早就沒功力了。吃过药后，妹妹和我为妈妈抹脸洗牙。过后，我去隔壁房间查看孩子，妹妹留在妈妈身旁。爸爸进房安慰她。过一阵子，妹妹叫我进来，因为妈妈张开双眼，望着贴在书架的菩萨画像。我们握着她的手，齐心念着“南無啊弥陀佛”。妈妈喘息一口气，我们在旁一直不断念着佛号，我的小女儿也一起念。慢慢的妈妈便闭上眼。过后，我的大女儿睡梦醒后也坐在外婆身旁念。念佛号念了两小时，我们还不能确定妈妈是否已往生，因为我们好像看到她的心和肺有轻微的起伏。最后，我们决定打电话给善终护理院。经过妹妹的检验后，善终护理院工作人员认为我们应该打电话请医生来确定。医生证实后，我就去警察局办死亡证书，而妹妹安排五福寿板店帮我们办理后事。

之后，其实发生一连串的小障碍：计程车载我们去错地方，找不到寿板店。寿板店老板人很友善，服務也非常周到，但就是有點太快了。层压媽媽的死亡证书后才发现警察人员疏忽，警察人员沒在证书的签名，我們要回去警察局。到了警属，警察人员們還說風涼話，经过半小时多的功夫才稍微把证书弄开。本来他们硬要弄开更大好签在中间，但我看再拉就会破，便阻止他们，要警察人员把名签在印章旁边。我們也要求他們寫一份報告，但他們不肯，还好妹妹把一切录影下来做证物。一办好这事后，我们接到通知。寿板店已经把帐篷搭好了，送饮料的，卖供养品的，还有花店也送花来了。我们就从警察局跑回家。

忙呀忙到下午，寿板店把妈妈送回家。我们依佛教仪式举办五天丧葬。第二，三，四晚都请三位法师为母诵经，每晚都会诵《地藏菩薩本願經》和唱诵“南無啊弥陀佛”。和师父一起为妈妈诵经带来很大的安慰。

我们很感谢朋友的宽心和幫助，由其是Gail, 泉裕师兄一家，Pearlyn，Jenny，Joslene。还有Gail和Susan一夜不眠帮我们折金纸。Thank you!

最后我想再给妈妈磕三個头，再说声：谢谢您，妈。您的养育之恩，我会永生不忘。您的爱和勇气永远在心里。我們永遠愛你，您一路好走。

Happy Mother's Day

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Sun, 08 May 2011 03:33:00 +0000

I wish all mothers a Happy Mother's Day.

Thank you mum for giving me a life. I love you.

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Sun, 17 Apr 2011 17:50:00 +0000

I have been spending some time every Thursday at the library of my daughters' primary school since term 2. My new mission: to bring the joy of reading for pleasure and share my passion for picture books with children at the school.

I am entrusted with a small number of boys and girls who need to read more or need help with reading (according to their teachers). These children, whom I read to once a week, declared that they love books and try to read. However, they are not read to at home and have little time and exposure to a wider range of picture books and children's literature.

Thus, as a storyteller, I will find books and stories that will first engage them. Meaning, 'content' that will get them interested in reading and motivate them, eventually, to read on their own in their spare time. How do I choose the books? I ask each child what interest them and the kind of books they enjoy reading. I give each one an opportunity to pick a story that he or she likes me to read. I also choose good picture books that I believe they will enjoy reading together with me and as a group.

While I understand that the teachers are probably hoping that these children can read fluently through this reading programme, I feel that it is much more important to first nurture and cultivate the children's passion for reading rather that getting them to go through a phonic lesson with me. I think once reading becomes a habit and hobby, the child will learn to become better reader - at least that's how I become a reader.

I have been studying discourses and books written on children literature and reading. I believe:

"The first engages the eye, the second the mind and the third the heart. Engagement of the heart distinguishes a reader from someone who is merely able to read. A good teacher of reading ensures that, right from the start, children learn not only how to read but about being a reader." (Understanding Children's Books, Prue Goodwin)

I can't wait to meet my little friends and take them on another story adventure again.

Painting - The Reading Lesson by Paul Seignac (1826-1904)

PS: An amazing stop-motion animation created for New Zealand Book Council to inspire New Zealanders to read more. This short film, which uses an excerpt from Maurice Gee’s novel Going West, has won an international prize for paper cut animation awarded by New York’s Museum of Art and Design. Book Council chief executive Noel Murphy says the aim of the film is to excite people about books and reading - “The idea that lies at the centre of this project is that reading is an activity that surprises, delights, challenges and ignites the imagination.” So ... enjoy!

Featured in Mother & Baby Magazine April's Edition

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Sat, 09 Apr 2011 13:43:00 +0000

Thanks to Mother & Baby Magazine for the interview and feature in April's 2011 edition. To celebrate International Children's Book Day (2nd April), there is a special write-up on authors and illustrators of children's books. It is a privilege to be in the spotlight amongst many other literary luminaries including my very favorite Emily Gravett, award-winning picturebook creator.

今天我想回家

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Wed, 12 Jan 2011 14:28:00 +0000

明天媽媽會入院，星期五進行一個大手術。醫生說有必要把腫瘤切除才有可能避免脊椎骨斷折導致瘫痪。媽媽在2007年7月間切除了半個肺，過後一直都在接受化療及中醫治療。我們只能祈求上帝保佑媽媽，平安渡過難關。也祈求上帝保佑爸爸和妹妹。

明天也是小女兒的生日。一眨眼，她七歲了。

可能你會問我為何以中文編寫今天的思绪？我想是因為我今天想回家了吧。

Watch Guai Wu The Chinese Elf at the library

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Sat, 08 Jan 2011 15:03:00 +0000

Guai Wu The Chinese Elf has been adapted into a Chinese play - The Kind 'Monster'! Thanks to our National Library Board and NTU (Nanyang Technological University) Chinese Society for the wonderful news to start a new year.

You can find more information on Asian Children's Festival website -
http://www.asianchildrenfest.com/monster.htm

Also in January's Go Kids newsletter (page 3). Grab your copy at the libraries or view online for more programmes.

(Click on the images for full view.)

Hope to see you at the shows!

* Marine Parade Public Library - Sunday, 9 January 2011, 3.00 to 4.30pm.

* Jurong Regional Library (Children's Actitvity Zone) - Saturday, 15 January, 3.00 to 4.30pm.

* Bedok Public Library (Programme Zone)- Sunday, 16 January 2011, 3.00 to 4.30pm.

BookfFest@Singapore 2010 & Concert of Hope

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Fri, 10 Dec 2010 02:13:00 +0000

BookFest@Singapore is here again which means it's time to buy BOOKS!

With its theme "Reading Embraces the World", BookFest@Singapore 2010 seeks to expand horizons through a greater exchange of knowledge, culture and ideas. The mega book fair thus presents a multitude of reading and learning opportunities for everyone, with new releases, local and overseas author appearances, educational talks as well as guest appearances by celebrities.

Talking about author appearances. two of my favourite children's book writers will be at the fair to delight children (and adults).

Ken Spillman, author of the popular Jake's series, will be appearance on the 10th (Friday, 2.30pm) and 11th (Saturday) at the Scholastic booth. He will be launching his new third book "Jake's Balloon Blast". Jake has ALWAYS dreamt of flying, and he knows that he can- it's just a matter of HOW. What he need is: *A great plan *The right stuff *His friend Johan. Can jake get his BIG dream off the ground?

Adeline Foo, Singapore's well-loved author of "The Diary of Amos Lee", will also be having a book signing session on the 11th (Saturday, 6pm) and 13th (Sunday, 1pm) at Marketasia booth.

Have a good time at the fair. Where: Suntec Singapore International Convention & Exhibition Centre

I am off to attend Concert of Hope - to raise funds for Angkor Children's Hospital, tonight and tomorrow. Information and tickets are still available.
http://www.facebook.com/pages/Singapore/Dance-Spectrum-International/147720235257928#!/event.php?eid=103576459708400

Be the first to catch this Dance Extravaganza, put together by 240 students from Dance Spectrum International, aged 4 to 21. This concert includes award-winning dance items from local & overseas dance competitions in Ballet, Tap, Modern and Jazz.

All proceeds & donations will go to Angkor Hospital for Children (AHC), Cambodia. They provide free medical treatment to children up to 16 yo. The proceeds will directly benefit children who need immediate heart surgeries. More information on AHC can be found on www.angkorhospital.org

Stay well.

Happy Diwali with Amos Lee

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Wed, 03 Nov 2010 04:27:00 +0000

Wishing you in advance Happy Diwali or Deepavali as we call it in Singapore.

Adeline Foo, my author for my picture book G uai Wu The Chinese Elf, will be launching her third Amos Lee book entitled 'I'm twelve. I'm tough, I Tweet!' this Saturday 6 November at Kinokuniya Bookshop at Takashimaya (Orchard Road). Do join her and her 'animated' Singapor-ish character Amos Lee to find out what both of them are up to this time!

You can also catch them a second time at Borders on the 13th November.

Have fun!

Happy Halloween!

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Sun, 31 Oct 2010 15:04:00 +0000

A day away from my drawing easel. Hannah finished her exam last Thursday so I took her, Heather and my neighbour's daughter Yuri (kids' best friend from Japan) out today.

We had some special Chinese dumpling noodles (originated from Pontian, Malaysia) at the hawker centre in Marine Parade. Then we went to find a proper fish tank for our five little fishes which were given to us by Heather's teacher when they were a day old. They have grown since and kind of out grow the old acrylic tank. Tank is out of stock so we bought some aquatic plants instead!

We had a lovely time chatting at Coffeebean. We bummed into Heather's classmate's family, but her classmate is sick and was resting at home. After grocery shopping, we headed home. The girls went swimming, while I prepared dinner - spaghetti was on our menu tonight. We brought our food to Yuri's house and dined together with Mariko and Kiseung. After dinner, the kids went trick or treat-ing with other children in our condo.

I am glad all had lots of fun and are now nicely tugged under their blankets. Some may be frolicking in their dreamland while others resting contentedly like petals on a peaceful lake.

As for me, it's time to rest my feet and hit the sack. Tomorrow has to be a productive day come rain or shine.

(PS: Just got an email from Cafepress that I just made a sale! Those Chinese Birth Sign tees that I designed with love 5 years ago are still selling. Check them out here on my blog or here in my shops (individual shop for each birth sign). Christmas is just around the corner! So BUY!!!

Reading Jake's Monster Mess

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Sat, 24 Jul 2010 10:28:00 +0000

It has been a very long departure from my blog. Two months and two weeks to be exact. What have I been up to? Well, besides being busy with kids, I have been hiding in my private planet working on my new children's book and learning to become a better illustrator. I have completed the first stage and working on stage two. I have received good feedback but have to think a bit further with the story and characters. It has been another amazing learning experience for me. I wish I can say a bit more but it's a secret for now.

One thing that is not a secret is that Jake's Monster Mess, the follow up title by Australian author Ken Spillman to his Jake's series for junior readers, is out! This time Jake's story takes place in his room which is only slightly messy ... until Dad asks him to tidy it. Unlike in Jake's Gigantic List (which I blogged about some time back) where Jake gets his surprises on his birthday, in this episode, there is a surprise in store for Dad except it isn't the one Jake planned. Hmmm!

Ken's (or Jake's) new little story revolves around everyday situations and ideas that both parents and children can relate to. Chris Nixon again produced some marvellous drawings to complement Ken's playful writing. It's a wonderful read that Heather and I have enjoyed.

Jake's Monster Mess is a book is especially dedicated to every child with good intentions and to parents blessed with an appreciation of them.

Here's an interview from Scholastic about the author that may inspire children who want to become a writer:

Ken Spillman has been writing for publication since his schooldays. His writing includes the acclaimed Young Adult novels, Love is a UFO and Blue, as well as the Jake series for younger readers, which commenced with Jake's Gigantic List and continued with Jake's Monster Mess and Jake's Balloon Blast.

Get to know more about Ken from the interview below.

Who was/is your favourite author? Why?
My list of favourite authors grows longer by the week. Any author who gives me a free pass into another world, and a sense of participation in the lives of others, is a favourite forever. Australian author Scot Gardner, who has written many books for teenagers, does that every time.

Who was your role model when you were in primary school?
An idealist even then, I think I was more interested in ideas than particular people - apart from sporting heroes. When I admired people from history, it was usually for what they said, or for what their actions represented - the anti-slavery campaigners, the people who got voting rights for working people and women, and so on.

Was there a role model in your life who inspired you to start writing?
There was. At 14 and 15, I had an English teacher named Chris Waddell who saw the value of creative writing and took the time to provide detailed, encouraging feedback on every piece I wrote. He took my work seriously, which gave me the confidence to take my own work seriously, and to keep at it.

If you could be a book or cartoon character for a day, who would you be? Why?
Perhaps it's a boring choice, but I wouldn't mind being Superman! I have two reasons… First and foremost, I'd love to be able to fly. Secondly, it would be wonderful to get around the place helping the good people of this world deal with those who are not so good. As a child, I loved the Robin Hood character - taking from the rich to give to the underprivileged.

If you could meet a famous person, who would it be? Why?
Tough question! It's not something I'm particularly interested in. As a fan of sports, however, I would probably choose Roger Federer. There's nothing in particular I'd want to talk about, but I have a feeling that it wouldn't be too hard to just sit together for a while and have coffee.

What are your hobbies?
Reading, browsing around libraries/bookshops, watching sports, travelling overseas, swimming, and enjoying great food and wine in moderation.

What do you enjoy the most about writing?
Creating characters who are real to me in almost every way, and going on some kind of journey with (or through) them. I also like having flexibility in my life with the management of my time - it isn't a 9 to 5 job.

What motivates you to write?
I just love stories, and believe they are important. Ultimately, I guess, I want to make some kind of difference. I want readers to connect with my characters and to take something from that experience. It's great when people email me to say that they have!

Do you have a favourite book that you have read more than once? Why do enjoy this book?
The Little Prince, by Antoine de Saint-Exupery. It's a book I can read every year or two, and find something new that I can immediately connect with my life.

Where is your most favourite place in the world?
Beaches, forests and mountains are all in this contest. But I also yearn for the crowded, noisy, smelly streets of Delhi, where I can feel part of some great, colourful, monstrous, beautiful humanity - yet profoundly alone.

Where do you get your ideas to write?
From anywhere and everywhere. From the things people say and do, from the things I see and feel, from the vast and surprising storehouse of memory.

When did you write your first book or piece?
My first book was a work of non-fiction - a history of Subiaco that I wrote in my early twenties for publication in 1985. Prior to that, I'd had short stories and poems published around Australia and also overseas.

When did your passion for writing begin?
In Year 4, my teacher got the class to write imagined autobiographies - of animals as well as people. I found that I loved escaping into the head of others - seeing a different point of view, and 'experiencing' things that, in real life, I could not. In Years 9 and 10, Chris Waddell empowered me to take that interest further.

A last note to our young readers…
Through reading, you can learn more about people than you will ever learn through talking to them. You can eavesdrop on souls. Don't be put off by books that are just not 'up your alley'… Find the ones that are, and remain open to the occasional side-journey.

Jake's Gigantic List and Jake's Monster Mess are available under Scholastic (call Malaysia 1-300-887818 or Singapore 6510-9000) at MPH Bookshops Malaysia and Times Bookstores Singapore and Fremantle Press (Australia +61-08- 9430-633). The third book - Jake's Balloon Blast - will be released soon!

With that, I shall leave here to return to my planet. Stay well.

(PS - This post is written for Ghaz. Hope that helps in one way or another.)

Back in the studio

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Mon, 10 May 2010 05:00:00 +0000

It is lovely to be home again and surrounded by love ones and warm neighbours who fed me delicious prawns even before I set my foot into my own house. I am so blessed.

I am now back in my home studio after 4 intense, invigorating and inspiring days at the Asian Festival of Children's Content (AFCC) organised by the National Book Development Council of Singapore and The Arts House last week.

Big thanks to the organisers as well as the advisors, speakers and presenters who put in their heart and sweat to put together this wonderful event that bring together people who are passionate about children's books. Great appreciation to the speakers who travelled a long way across the oceans with all means (including cycling ... not joking) and feed us with so much information despite being jetlag, attacked by the ferocious Singapore heat and pestered by sales people of exotic food along the quay.

Like Sangeetha, a friend and the author of A Blue Cat's Tale (a beautifully illustrated picture book published by ST Press under the First Time Writer and Illustrator scheme), I was information overloaded! My head too was buzzing with ideas and excitement. I certainly had lots of fun catching up with old friends and meeting new ones whom I hope will grow into old friends the next time we meet again.

While I am compelled to write a long post about the festival, I would like to direct you to Tarie's blog for now. I had the pleasure of meeting Tarie Sabido during the last session which was an open dialog between Asian and Australian publishers, writers and illustrators. Tarie, who lives in the Philippines, has an interesting blog that talks about books set in Asia and books with Asian characters regardless of where they are from.

Tarie's enthusiasm and love for children's literature is infectious of course. Whether you are a writer, an illustrator, a publisher, a mother, a teacher, or simply someone who loves to read, definitely check her blogs out. The names - Asia in The Heart (http://asiaintheheart.blogspot.com) and Color Online (http://coloronline.blogspot.com - a blog focuses on women writers of color for adults young adults (YA) and children.) Super efficient in journaling, Tarie posted her experience at AFCC quicker than anyone in the media! I am blogrolling you!

One more lady whom I had great pleasure meeting is Daphne Lee. Daphne is an advocate in reading in Malaysia. She started blogging about books for children and teens in 2004. You can imagine the sheer amount of resources, researches and information that Daphne had put her heart and soul into, in the name for love for children's literature. It's a must for parents and teachers to spend time at her blog. (Seriously, I command you to!) Her blog is The Places You Will Go (http://daphne.blogs.com). Be ready to be enlighten!

Before I sign off to do more thinking and get more drawings done (I am so behind schedule, it's scary), I would like to share a little bit about my experience with the Asian Parents Forum, which I think is the best way to end the event on Sunday. Why is it the best you may ask? Let me tell you from the perspective of a parent.

I managed to attend two sessions in the morning. One with Dilip Mukerjea of Braindancing International and another with Vikas Malkani of SoulKids and SoulParents.

Both are dynamic speakers who spoke with great wisdom. They are the people who knows children (I would say better than many of us). I have learned so much from them on Mother's Day. Indeed, what a privileged to have children and be around them.

At the end of the sessions, I asked myself one simple question which I think it will take me a lifetime to find out, which is the beauty of it too - What do we understand about children?

Email me if you have any thoughts. I would absolutely love to hear from you.

Have a great week ahead.

Also on www.christinelimsimpson.com.

Asian Festival of Children's Content 2010

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Tue, 04 May 2010 16:58:00 +0000

Just a quick update here. I will be attending the Asian Festival of Children's Content (AFCC) organised by The Arts House and the National Book Development Council of Singapore (NBDCS, also know as The Book Council) this week, from 6th to 9th May 2010.

AFCC aims to foster excellence in the creation, production and publication of children materials with Asian content in all formats and facilitate their distribution and access to parents, teachers, librarians and children in Asia as well as the world. For the past 10 years, NBDCS has been organising the Asian Children Writers & Illustrators Conference (ACWIC) to develop new materials for children. With the launch of AFCC, both organisations now aim to expand ACWIC's reach by including new initiatives. The Festival, with a series of innovative programmes, seeks to fill the direct need for quality Asian children content worldwide, particularly in Asia.

I am very excited about it. And so really looking forward to learn new stuff as well as making new friends and catching up with some old ones.

On the 9th May, which is Sunday, there will be a special forum for parents. You can check it out on the website.

Two of my illustrations from Guai Wu The Chinese Elf had been selected for the Book Illustrators’ Gallery (BIG) exhibition, which will be held during AFCC. BIG aims to showcase illustrations from artists from around the region, and is a platform for the promotion of local and regional artists. Their works go beyond genres and borders and contribute towards creating awareness of traditions and heritage. It also helps to publicise the great business potential in creating and distributing Asian content throughout Asia and the rest of the world.

BIG will run from 6 May to 14 May at the Film and Print Galleries, and Box Office Foyer of the festival venue, The Arts House.

Have a great week ahead everyone! Maybe see you at the conference.

Living each day to the fullest

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Wed, 21 Apr 2010 03:33:00 +0000

Hello world! I hope you are all well.

I have been reminded yesterday that I have not post anything on my blog since January. No excuse but life has been indeed very very busy.

First school term ended about a month ago in March and kids are getting used to their school routine. This year my goals are to help Heather master phonics so she can read independently and enjoy reading as much as Hannah, Jon and me. I will also put in time with her Math and Chinese. For Hannah, I have to continue coaching her with academic work and find ways to help her learn better and faster without nagging.

This year, Hannah is enjoying school more except one particular subject which she struggles with. She loves bowling twice a week with her school team. She also participated during sport days and got first in a race (200m run I think). Royal Dance Academy (UK) Ballet exam was also finally over for her during the one week school break in March. She and her ballet teacher had put in their best effort in during the preparation period. Now she has to prepare for her ISTD Tap exam. Struggling to get the rhythm and steps right but the teachers are very patient and are more than helpful and willing to get her ready for the day if all of us work together towards the same consistent result, which is hard for a child of her age. Then again, she did expressed her wish to continue learning. I can only help supervise and encourage her to make that wish into a reality. No pain, no gain, I guess.

Heather continues to improve with her reading. She is doing fantastically with daily lessons with her kindergarten teachers and with me for 30 minutes when she is at home. We practise The Reading Lesson program and a couple of other Phonics materials as well as storybooks. We try to spend a bit of time each week doing additions and subtractions for Math. She started taking piano lessons about two months ago. She had asked me to let her learn music since she was around 3 and 1/2 years old. I thought she was too young then. This year I finally found a nice young teacher who loves little children to teach her. During her play time, she draws, plays with her bears and little animal figurines and swim.

Last week, she performed for parents during a Learn Chinese workshop at her school. All the kids were brave and superb at singing and dancing! I help her teacher to host a storytelling craft session. That was fun for me.

We get together with friends every few weeks and have been cycling a lot as of late. This year, I resolute to exercise more regularly. Hence, had joined the girls and Jon to form a cycling gang with a few other families (friends from kids' school) and had a few fairly big cycling adventures (39 km / 24.23 miles being the longest).The biggest group we had was 10 kids and 7 adults. We had a blast at East Coast Park.

We still cook a lot. We love food as you can see. Click on the images to enlarge and see what's in our home menu.

In my studio, it's busy! I can't think of a better word really. I am working on a few things and a new project which I cannot reveal at the moment. It's exciting learning new things everyday. I need a new Da Vinci drawing easel, a good Nikon DSLR camera, lots of pencils and sketchbooks, blue tape, drawing casts and models, a Macbook Pro ... any sponsor? ;)

So that's our life in a nutshell. Not sure when I get the time to post again. All I can say is I will try my best.

Take care you and stay well! Have fun with your weeks ahead.

(PS: my mum and dad are doing fine. Mum is still on oral chemo medication and taking Chinese medicines as alternate supplements. Dad is happy. My sis is ok. Thanks for your kind regards and concerns.)

Where to buy Guai Wu The Chinese Elf

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Fri, 22 Jan 2010 01:57:00 +0000

Been a long break from my blog. School started 3 weeks ago. My girls and I are getting used to our new routine. I have lesser time to work in the afternoon since both will be home from school between 11-ish to 1-ish. Two days a week Hannah goes bowling hence I have to fetch her from school in the late afternoon. Everyday, I will spend a few hours helping them with school work. Hannah is mostly supervision while Heather does her phonics, reading and Chinese with me. Besides study, I also have to do grocery, cook, book keeping and do house chores (which I do leave out some days when my schedule is full).

Morning is the only good stretch of time for me to draw. I have about 4 hours to glue myself on my chair and keep my pencils moving. Some days I do get distractions.

I have a couple of new projects line up this year. I started doing research for one this week. Gonna be fun working on it. I will update again.

Meanwhile if you want to buy Guai Wu The Chinese Elf online, you can go to SELECTBOOKS or KINOKUNIYA bookstore. Links embedded. Thanks for your support!

Must go now. Take care you and be well.

Get fit this holiday at Alpha Gymnastics

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:15:00 +0000

Last Sunday, the girls went to Alpha Gymnastic Club for lots of good stretching and jumping. Located at Playground @ Big Splash (East Coast Park), Alpha Gym conducts a wide range of gymnastics classes for all ages and abilities. Their classes have been professionally designed to provide strong gymnastics foundation to develop strength, flexibility, balance and co-ordination, thus providing an excellent basis for starting other sports.

Hannah and Heather had lots of fun trying out all sorts of exercises and gym equipment with the guidance from their friendly coaches.

There will be an open house free trial class on 28th and 29th November 2009. To find out more about them and their programs, call 93803033 or email sign_up@alphagym.com.sg for your complimentary slot.

Shuttle* to Big Splash from Parkway Parade (near Old Chang Kee, opposite McDonald's Parkway Centre) available.
* Adult $1 Kids Free

Stay healthy and fit this holiday!

Meeting Neil Gaiman and other awesome literary figures at the Singapore Writers Festival

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Sat, 07 Nov 2009 18:45:00 +0000

I can't believe that another week has gone by without a new post.

Last week at the Singapore Writers Festival, I met several people whom I "met/knew" online. One of them is Sharon Bakar who writes about books (and authors, and publishing events, and reviews, and interviews, among many other interesting stuffs related to the literary world) on her blog, Bibliobibuli - Woman Battles Book Dependency Problem. So book lovers, head off to the bookaholic's blog to share your views about books, and Second Life if you have one.

Another person I enjoyed meeting (a lot) is Wena Poon. Yes, she is the author whose first book, Lions In Winter, was longlisted for the 2008 International Frank O'Connor Short Story Prize, nominated for the Singapore Literature Prize and shortlisted for Popular Reader's Choice Award in Malaysia. The friendly and quick-witted writer was here to speak and launch her new books - The Proper Care of Foxes, published by Ethos Books, and The Biophilia Omnibus, a collection of her first four literary science fiction/fantasy adventure works which she published through BookSurge. She brought in limited copies and I was very happy to get hold of one from BooksActually, the official bookstore for the festival. More of Wena, go to her website www.wenapoon.com.

Jen Hamilton-Emery, director of Salt Publishing (UK) who is responsible for the international edition of Wena's Lions in Winter, was also in town. She was one of the panelists for the publishing industry symposium to talk about poetry, short stories and translation. Jen was very very humble despite having the award winning authors as well as long- and short- listed titles with the publishing firm she run with her partner. Check out their website and buy a book or two to support their Just One Book campaign this Christmas.

At the symposium, I also met Tunku Halim, a Malaysian author based in Tasmania, who, like me, has a deep love for history. He had published several "dark fantasy" stories and a children's encyclopedia on History of Malaysia which was inspired by his late father and took him five years to put together. More information on this well researched book can be found on the author's blog.

It was a pleasure meeting Mr Abdon M. Balse, Jr. (Jun), an award winning novelist and poet from the Philippines. During the symposium, he shared with me the problems of distributing books created by Asean writers and provided insightful information on reading and buying habits in Philippines. It was interesting to learn that books are delivered like pizzas over there! Thank you sir for your time and I too hope that there will be more opportunities to foster better understanding in the area of writing and distribution as well as to establish closer ties between writers, artists, publishers, distributors and booksellers in the two countries.

I attended Felix Cheong's launch for Sudden Youth, a collection of new and selected poems, published by Ethos Books. Felix shared with us his journey as a poet and generously read us almost the whole book. He said this maybe his last poetry book and is working on short stories. I wish you well with whatever you are endeavouring next.

This year, Neil Gaiman, the creator of Sandman, Coraline, Stardust, The Graveyard Book (which won this year's Newbery Award) along with picture books such as Blueberry Girl and The Day I Swapped My Dad with Two Gold Fish, was invited to give a series of talks/dialogs during the Singapore Writers Festival. I managed to get tickets to attend two of the three sessions - Little Lit! at the Arts House and Graphic Novels and Fantasy at the Victoria Theatre. And here's my account.

On Saturday, he talked about writing Coraline, his first novel for children which he started writing in 1991 for her daughters Holly and Maddy. After working on it on-and-off for the next few years, he finally completed the book in 1999 and have it released in 2000. On how kids react to horror story, he felt that children are better at taking scary stuff than adults. He compared Coraline to Hansel and Gretel, which he described as a tale of abandonment and starvation and mass murder. He reckoned that both stories are similar to some extend. So if children aren't afraid of the horrible things in such fairytales, then they will enjoy the chills that run down their spines as they read his story (as proven by Morgan, Gaiman's editor's son). I suppose afraid as they may be, they will also nevertheless be grateful that there is finally an author who refuses to patronise a young audience hungry for an absorbing horror tale.

During the second half of the session, he moved unto more adult stuff. He revealed enthusiastically about his new China inspired project. I am utterly impressed for the fact that he had actually read several Chinese Classics including Dream of the Red Chamber (红楼梦), Outlaws of the Marsh (水许传), Journey to the West (西游记) and Romance of the Three Kingdom (三国演义). He was particularly fascinated by Tang San Zang (唐三藏) and his epic 10000 miles round trip to India to bring back to China the scriptures of Buddhist during the Sui and Tang Dynasty (A.D. 620, 7th century), which basically formed the story of the Journey to The West written by Wu Cheng'en (吴承恩) in the Ming Dynasty, 16th century of China.

Someone asked for his views about book sectioning at bookshops, working on Good Omens with Terry Pratchett whom he referred to as someone with very similar head, and on him releasing the beast in him through writing. He answered each question insightfully. On working with various media, Gaiman hopes to conquer the stage in the future. He didn't talk much about The Graveyard Book but read a good whole chapter from it.

One hour was really short. So on Sunday, I went to listen to the man talked once more, with Hannah. This time, Neil Gaiman, who was cladded again in black, made his appearance in front of 800 fans at the Victoria Theatre. After an introduction, he thanked everyone for "braving the long queue, braving heat and braving whatever mysterious secret messaging system that you know that tickets were available for getting in here". He talked about how "ok" he felt about turning 50 because he has had an amazing life, has written a lot of things he wanted to write, has raised a couple of really cool kids and has the world's coolest girlfriend (Amanda Palmer). He claimed that the only time he was afraid of the plane crashing down was in 1988 when he had to take 100 pages of Dave Mckean's original artworks for Black Orchid from UK to America. He said that he had to work very hard to keep the plane afloat with his mind throughout the entire journey.

The other thing that Gaiman seemed to enjoy talking about during both sessions was Singaporeans' crazy obsession with eating and food. Imagination ran wild with his really humorous theory about an unique viand called "stuffed authors - where you take a nice English author who spends a lot of time in America, about 50, feed him wonderful food until he's completely stuffed, and then slice him up and make him up into little pink packages." He also described Singaporeans as "very enthusiastic, but in a quiet, polite and very organised way" and made a terrible joke about Philippinos, which he quickly apologised.

He also chatted away gleefully, like the way a child talks about his first exotic pet, about his bees, on his mission to save the bee colony, and about how he got into bee-keeping and the second blue ribbon in the county fair that he and his bee-keeping team (Loraine and Birdchick) won for Extracted Honey and for Comb Honey. For him, that was the third best award ever. It beat a dozen of others literary prizes including the new 2010 Les Grands Prix de l’Imaginaire Award for translated short fiction of Des choses fragiles (Fragile Things, collection), he said. The top two are Newbery and Hugo.

Of course again, he told us about his new nonfiction project inspired by the Chinese Legend Journey to the West (西游记) and bits about his day with Mr Liu Xiao Ling Tong (六小龄童) - the Chinese actor who acted as Monkey King (I watched him on TV when I was 9 or 10, can't believe it was so long ago). He also commented that his new books will contain stories about his near impossible meeting with the fourth high-level monk and all the peculiar encounters he had during his various adventures in China including the one about a hawker trying to sell him a human elbow.

I am not surprise with what one can find and experience in a country with a history of over five thousand years. I personally discovered quite a bit online when doing my research for my book Guai Wu The Chinese Elf. As for the subject of Monkey King, in fact, two months ago Lak Khee, an illustrator-friend of mine who is currently based in France, and I had a discussion about this Chinese folktale character whom almost everyone knows.

And in my Little Lit! talk at The Arts House in May, I mentioned, in connection to incorporating Asian elements to children's book, Professor Ma WenHai, another illustrator-friend of mine, who created a series of children's books based on the tales of the monkey god for the American market. In his 4th, which is also the latest, book Monkey King Defeats Red Boy (above), he had put my kids in as characters for his watercolour paintings. His books had been translated to other languages. That goes to show the popularity of this mythical character that most Chinese grew up with. So I look forward to read Gaiman's take on the legend.

Someone in the audience also ask him to talk a bit about his visit to the amazing Studio Ghibli. He said, as he looked back, meeting Mr Hayao Miyazaki, the prominent Japanese filmmaker of many popular animated feature films including Totoro, Spirited Away and, most recently, Ponyo, and spending an afternoon in his studio was one of the best day ever for him. With regards to Totoro's appearance in the background of the illustrated version of Stardust, Neil's answer was that the idea was from the artist but he would have done that too if he had thought of that.

Despite being a rock-star in the literary scene, Neil Gaiman is an amazingly open, unpretentious and down-to-earth person who take time for each one who patiently queue to meet him in person. He is also a very witty and incredibly charismatic storyteller. Hannah shook hand with him (nervously) and had her book signed. As for me, I am thankful to him for an opportunity to revisit my childhood memory through Sun WuKong, the curious and fearless monkey, whose dream to become immortal, brings to life a series of awe-inspiring adventures as the Great Sage Equal to Heaven who continuously creates havoc in the celestial world, had kept me amused and entertained when I was little, and still does even as adult.

If you like to hear from Gaiman himself, go to www.razortv.com. There is a series of interesting interviews from the press conference that happened during his visit.

In one of the recordings, he talked about bribing a watchman to enter a closed down monkey amusement park that ended with seriously disturbing scenes of hell where sinful people were tortured. I can totally relate to the same terrifying experience he described about a young child who walked through the eldritch tunnels. The trip to Haw Par Villa with my parents when I was six or seven at that time had haunted me for years. After walking out of "18 levels of hell", I remember saying to myself that I want to find another religion (or change god) so that I can go to heaven. I later discovered that it is "possible" with the "western" god. Seek and ye shall find!

Ok. With that, I shall end my long post and thank the hardworking team at National Arts Council, The Arts House and the Singapore Books Publishing Association for organising such a wonderful festival.

I wish you (mummies and children) a good school break. My family and I will be taking an adventurous three weeks holiday in New Zealand. Can't wait to breathe the clean crisp air.

PS: Thanks to everyone who came to my book launch during the writers festival despite the rain.

Singapore Writers Festival 2009 - Undercover

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 01:52:00 +0000

For writers and budding writers and anyone who loves books, Singapore Writers Festival kicked off last Friday at The Arts House and will be running till 1st November. Check out the official website (www.singaporewritersfestival.com) for programme information.

HIGHLIGHTS

26 October 2009, 7:30 pm
Inspector Singh Investigates: A Bali Conspiracy Most Foul by Shamini Flint

Come celebrate the launch of the new Inspector Singh book by author Shamini Flint. You just might discover why Daily Telegraph (United Kingdom) has described Inspector Singh as “a crime series hero like no other”. In this thrilling second book of the series, the Inspector is sent to Bali to help with anti-terrorism efforts, after a bomb blast has been set off on the island.

27 October 2009, 6:30 pm
Literary Pioneer Series: An Evening with Edwin Thumboo

Every society has its pioneers. Without Singapore's literary pioneers laying the foundations, Singapore literature would not be where it is today. Following a tradition started in 2007, SWF takes pride in focusing on SWF 2009 Literary Pioneer, Emeritus Professor Edwin Thumboo. Aside from exploring his works through the years with Jonathan Webster and Thiru Kandiah, there will be heartwarming moments aplenty as friends and family join the man himself in this evening of poetic melodies and anecdotes.

31 October 2009, 12:30 pm
Sudden in Youth: New and Selected Poems 1998 – 2009 by Felix Cheong

Expect inventive wordplay that cuts through the skin of language in Singapore poet Felix Cheong's new book, which brings together his best poems from the past decade as well as his recent writings. Whether assuming the voice of serial killers or strippers, or musing on love or God, he offers an insight as equally provocative as evocative.

31 October 2009, 03:00pm & 04:30pm and 1 November 2009, 02:00pm
Talks by Neil Gaiman

Neil Gaiman, English author of graphic novel Sandman, novel American Gods, and children's books The Graveyard Book and Coraline will be making his way to the festival. For the first session on the 31st, find out if he writes in a different mindset when positioning his stories for children and teens, followed by reading extracts from Who Kills Amanda Palmer, a new photo book from the author based on a macabre collection of Amanda of American music duo The Dresden Dolls, in death poses. On the 1st, he will share some of his experiences and inspirations behind his many graphic novels and writings in the fantasy genre.

Also check out Wena Poon's new books The Biophilia Omnibus and The Proper Care Of Foxes.

It is a pity that I have missed a couple of talks and book launch due to family events - Heather's school performance last Saturday and classes on Sunday - so I am looking forward to this coming weekend.

And don't forget Adeline Foo, Lee Kowling and I will be launching our new books Georgette's Mooncakes and Guai Wu The Chinese Elf this Saturday, 31 October, 6.30pm, at The Arts House. RSVP here on Faceboook. See you there!

Guai Wu The Chinese Elf was reviewed by Michelle Martins on her Talking Books segment on 938Live. Check out this video below with the radio recording.

A wedding, two launch and a third to come

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 10:45:00 +0000

Last weekend was a busy one for me and my family. There was launch events for my picture book Guai Wu The Chinese Elf and Kowling's book Georgette's Mooncakes at Borders Books, as well as a wedding of a dear friend of mine (Cindy) on a beautiful Sunday morning at Beaufort Sentosa.

Cindy's wedding is the most heartwarming nuptial I have ever attended. Attendees are her family and some of her closest friends, mostly of them know her for over ten years. Everyone agrees to the hilt that Cindy is a loyal friend who is always thoughtful, kind and empathetic. I met Cindy when I was working as a copywriter at an advertising agency, let me see ... in 1995 (I think ... getting old). But I do remember her joining the creative group as an intern. In fact a very cheerful, sweet and cute young mar-com student she was. I am really touched that Cindy has never forgotten me even after she left the agency and went off to Wales in the UK to further her education. She did things that keep the friendship going. She sent me and my girls postcards for every occasion (mostly handmade), visited me on Chinese New Year with tins of cookies and tangerine and replied every email no matter where she was. I have so much to learn from her about nurturing relationships. I am grateful to know an extraordinary steadfast friend who never takes any relationship for granted. Thank you Cindy. I am so happy for you. I wish you the very very best in the world in your new life in Wales with Roger, whom I trust to be a man of honor and big heart.

(Click on the images to enlarge)

After the wedding, I dashed off to the bookstore to launch my new book Guai Wu The Chinese Elf. Our book launch at Borders Books went well on both days. Many thanks to all of you who came to support us. Thanks Jamie and her staff at the Parkway bookstores for their logistic assistance. I think I did better than the first time when I did my presentation at Little Lit. At least not as nervous. I also enjoyed coming up with my own craft activities for the children.

I want to especially thank my girls Hannah and Heather, my husband Jon (who came to the bookstore despite being under the weather), Mariko and Wen for stepping forward to give me a hand with the events. Mari helped me to cut some of the templates for my shoe making session and brought for me my paintings while I went to the wedding before the event that morning while Wen helped me out with photography.

I held my tears when my mum and dad came to the bookstore until the end of the event. I am very touched by their support all along despite of their poor health. Thank you mum and dad for everything.

Double book launch
In celebration with the release of Georgette's Mooncakes and Guai Wu The Chinese Elf, Ethos Books will be hosting a double book launch during the Singapore Writers Festival, on the 31st October 2009, 6.30pm to 7.30pm at The Arts House. For more info, please go to my Facebook Pages or visit the official website of Singapore Writers Festival.

I look forward to catching up with you again. In the meantime, wish me luck with a few new sets of paintings for OIC.

Chinese Embroidery Patterns for Illustration Friday

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Fri, 02 Oct 2009 13:12:00 +0000

It has been a very very long time since I participated in Illustration Friday, where I first discovered the possible opportunity to illustrate for children's book. This week's topic is PATTERN and I happen to have some illustrations that fit in nicely.

These illustrations are from my new picture book Guai Wu The Chinese Elf, a story set during the Qing Dynasty. The book tells a story about a boy in China who looked different from other children and a seamstress who took him into her house and gave him shelter and food. In those days, the Han Chinese wore elaborately embroidered silk costumes and handmade shoes with beautiful patterns inspired by nature, folk culture and folk tales.

More article on the book can be found here, here and here.

…
Book information
Author: Adeline Foo
Illustrator: Christine Lim
Publisher: Ethos Books
Format: Soft Cover Trade
ISBN: 9789810828981
Medium: watercolour

This post is linked to this.

Update: The topic was changed when I submitted my entry.

Hot off the press!

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Sat, 26 Sep 2009 18:50:00 +0000

Labour of love
25 September 2009, Friday - I have been waiting for the moment to write this post for nearly 365 days. My parents had taught me well the virtue of patience.

This morning before I dashed off to meet my bookseller, Wai Han my publisher at Ethos Books, was so sweet to send over some copies of my newly printed books Guai Wu The Chinese Elf. For the first time, I feel relieved. I flipped through the book but didn’t scrutinise my paintings and the printing like I normally will do. Today, I told myself it’s time to walk tall. My work is done, or at least I am down with only the marketing aspect for my book. That’s right, illustrating and getting published is only part of the book business.

Almost an entire year of hard work is in this picture book. Is it worth it? YES, and I will do it again and again and again. I have learned so much from my author-partner Adeline Foo, my incredibly patient publishing team (Wai Han, Hoe Fang, Adeleena, Alvin and Merlin), Thomas and Hao You at PICA Scans, Steven and Ah Man at Utopia Press and everyone else whom had shared with me their wisdom in creating picture books. Thank you all for all your efforts.

Special thanks to Professor Ma Wenhai at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign who had shared with me his personal pictures of China. His constant notes of encouragement are like cushions. My gratitude to Ken Spillman for all his inspirational and uplifting words.

Also, thanks in advance to the team at MarketAsia for distributing my books, all the staff of Borders Books for their support for the upcoming event on next Sunday, 4 October, 2pm at Borders Parkway, other book sellers, as well as each and everyone who will come and support me.

Last but not least, thanks to a few very important people in my life - Hannah and Heather (for everything that no adults can give and teach me), Jon (for providing for us), mum and dad (who has never once force me to become a doctor or a lawyer) and my sister Dawn (for looking after my mum and never once ask me to go get a properly paid job), my trustworthy neighbours Mariko, KiSeung and little Yuri (for your friendship, support, kind acts and for saving me time after time), my generous friends including Selena and Boo Kian (who never fail to bring out a smile on my kids’ face), Miko (who regularly buy me coffee to keep me awake on Sunday), May (who sends me love regularly from Toronto) and ALL my little friends (who loves peeping over my shoulder when I draw and paint) - each one of you is an inspiration behind my work.)

So, with further ado, I would like to invite you and your child to celebrate with me and Adeline for the launch of Gu Wu The Chinese Elf on the following dates:

4th October 2009. Sunday. 2pm.
BORDERS BOOKS (Parkway Parade)
There will be storytelling, guided shoe making session*, exhibition of original artwork and book signing.
* parent/guardian's assistance is required.

You can find more info through my Facebook Page.

31st October 2009. Saturday. 6.30pm
EARSHOT at THE ARTS HOUSE
A Singapore Writers Festival event – Joint book launch with Lee Kowling, illustrator for Adeline’s Peranakan series, for Georgette’s Mooncakes and The Beaded Slippers, also authored by Adeline Foo. I will fill you in with details in the coming weeks.

Kowling will also be launching her new book Georgette's Mooncake and The Beaded Slippers at Borders Books (Wheelock) on 3rd October 2009, Saturday at 2pm to 3pm.

Please see the image for details.

We look forwards to seeing all of you. :)

If you are a bookseller, a school teacher, a parent looking for have us over to do a talk, workshop, storytelling, please drop me an email.
…
Almost there!
22 September 2009. Tuesday - I am glad that my book is finally printed. Last Friday, I went all the way to Tuas with my publisher to do the press check. Ah Man, the press operator at Utopia Press, patiently took me through the process and taught me how colours can be adjusted to make the final appearance more pleasing to the eyes. Binding should done on today. The books should be delivered to the publisher by Wednesday ... I can’t wait to see my labour of love in print. Stay tuned for updates regarding book signing and activities!

…
Book information
Format: Soft Cover Trade
ISBN: 9789810828981
…
Happy Birthday to my sweetheart!

17 September 2009. Thursday - Here's my special and long due "report" for Brenda, my extended family in UK!

Hannah turned 8 on Monday, 14th Sept. This year we didn't throw a party. Instead she decided that she wanted to invite a few good friends on various days during the one week long holiday, a weeks ago, to go out with her for some fun together. My daughter has really grown up.

On Tuesday 8th, Selena brought us to Fidget indoor playground and the kids played for hours. We headed to Horse City for lunch at Picotin - great restaurant ambience and food was awesome. Kids had soup and pizza. I had Tuna with Nicoise Salad. The children had fun seeing little animals and horses that were kept at the stable and getting little treats all day. We went to Selena's place after lunch. Hannah really enjoyed playing with their dog, Tye.

On Thursday 10th, we had a picnic at the Botanic Gardens. We had J.CO donuts, lemonade and ice cream. Kids had a great time feeding the black swans, exploring the Eco Garden and Jacob Ballas Garden on their own and getting all wet at the water area.

On Friday 11th, Jon took the girls to Vivo City and Sentosa. They went for a fairly posh lunch at Akashi. Hannah had Ikura sushi that cost $12 for two pieces. I joined them later that evening at Sentosa for dinner. The evening ended with fun on the luge.

Then on Saturday 12th, Mari and KiSeung were very sweet to let us join them and their daughter Yuri for a dinner at Jumbo Seafood at East Coast Park. We are grateful to be so blessed with friends like them in our lives. Thanks to my children, especially Hannah, I have found new friends and established new bonding that has helped me grow as a mother.

(Click image to enlarge)

…
School reopened last Monday after a short week's break. Hannah was reminded by her teacher that she has to sit for her final term exam soon. Time to schedule some hours to do some revision with her (something which I have not really allotted much time in this year). Hope it's not too late. In the meantime, we managed to squeeze in some time on Saturday evening to go bowling and enjoy a sumptuous Korean feast, joined by kids' best friend Yuri, as part of Hannah’s extended birthday treat since Jon was out of town on Hannah's birthday. I discovered that I can draw but can't bowl (and now it’s not a secret)! Nevertheless, it was fun. Hannah was actually quite good at it. We look forward to the next session.

…
My mum is doing ok with the oral chemotherapy. She came over to watch over Heather a few times when I take my dad to the hospital for his checkup. My sister is working very hard to support the medical expenses. I hope the sales from my book will ease off some load from her. Thank you all for your kind regards and prayers for them.

…
I think I am done with this post. 3.20am. What's the thing mothers always say: it's past bedtime. Good night!

Reading For Pleasure - Nurturing Lifelong Learners

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 16:02:00 +0000

Dear friends and readers, how have you been? I hope you have been kind to yourself. I am happy to announce that my book Guai Wu is now in the reproduction stage. There are still lots of things to do - colour corrections for the scans, touching up, colour proofing, cover design, text layout, final press check, etc, before the book goes to the bookstores.

In the meantime, I just want to share with you on the topic of reading for pleasure.

The Strait Times published an interview with Dr Ken Spillman, an Australian author of over 20 books including Blue and Love is a UFO, both acclaimed novels for teenagers, about "Getting the young to read for pleasure".

(Please click on the image to read the article.)

An evangelist of reading for pleasure, Dr Spillman visited Singapore on 24th August to gave a talk on literacy in the interactive world at a conference that is part of the 5th Read! Singapore campaign.

As a parent, I would like to thank Dr Spillman for reminding us the benefits of reading for pleasure. He recently published his new juvenile fiction entitled Jake’s Gigantic List*, which is especially dedicated to Children’s Book Council of Australia for being “so tireless in promoting the wonder of books”.

Jake’s Gigantic List
Jake’s Gigantic List is about discovering the magic of a great story. The protagonist is a little boy who wants it all. Like most kids, he loves birthdays and presents. He has pretty much everything a kid wants, though not enough. So for his coming birthday, his father tells him to make a wishlist which includes everything he has imagined to have - real spaceships, pet crocodile, friendly pirate, remote control football, a good mood tablet for teachers, etc. The list grew longer and longer, and more and more inventive. Luckily for Jake, Auntie Lyn knows just where to find them all. Filled with cute pencil sketch illustrations by Chris Nixon, Jake’s Gigantic List makes a fun book to read at anytime.

I personally had enjoyed reading Jake’s Gigantic List to Hannah, Heather and Yuri (my Japanese neighbour’s child) at bedtime. They all love the story to bits, especially the idea of creating their own adventure packed birthday list. Chris Nixon’s cartoonish, black and white drawings added extra playfulness to the lighthearted story.

You can find out more about Dr Ken Spillman on his website: www.kenspillman.com
Jake’s Gigantic List is published by Fremantle Press. ISBN 978 1921 361 71 5. You can purchase online http://www.fremantlepress.com.au/books/1111

Why reading for pleasure is so important to a child?
The world was once a place where books were not only for knowledge, book were also for entertainment, therefore for pleasure. Reading for fun was a favourite pastime of most children, teens and adults before the 50s. Then TV struck. Back then it was thought that TV would replace movies. Little did they know that movies would survive and reading for pleasure would fall by the wayside.

As TV watching increased, reading for fun decreased in direct proportion. With the birth of computers, popularisation of Internet and portable games gadgets in the 90s, as well as education system reform that stresses on academic achievement, people started to turn away from books to other form of activities for pleasure.

In UK, The Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (Pirls) showed that the amount of reading overall outside school continued to plummet since the last study, six years ago. Only 33% of children in England and Scotland read for pleasure, compared with the international average of 40%.

The children's secretary, Ed Balls, said: "This study shows that our highest achieving children are reading less, with children's busy days leaving less time for books at home. As parents we have to get the balance right and as a society we have to send the right messages about the value of reading to our children."

Liberal Democrat shadow children's secretary David Laws said "Despite the success of books like Harry Potter, there is still a worryingly large group of our young people who have absolutely no interest in reading. We have to ensure that youngsters can not only read and write but that schools and parents breathe enjoyment back into what otherwise can be a rigid programme of learning."

In another interview, an award-winning children's author has suggested the current schooling system is putting kids off reading for pleasure.

While some independent schools may be exceptions to the rule, Frank Cottrell Boyce, told the Telegraph that continuous assessment and a focus on literacy may have improved the skills of some, but has taken the joy out of reading for many.

The author was awarded the Carnegie Medal for children's writing after the success of his book Millions, but told the newspaper he feels the focus on how children read is damaging.

"It is like comparing health to sport," he said. "One is something functional - the other is something you do because you enjoy it." Mr Cottrell Boyce told the newspaper children who read for pleasure should naturally do better at school.

New Children’s Laureate encourages reading picture books for pleasure
Anthony Browne, the new Children’s Laureate, has recently called for greater emphasis on reading for pleasure. Accepting the Laureateship in June he said, “I hope to encourage more children to discover and love reading, but I want to focus particularly on the appreciation of picture books, and the reading of both pictures and words. Picture books are for everybody at any age, not books to be left behind as we grow older. The best ones leave a tantalising gap between the pictures and the words, a gap that is filled by the reader's imagination, adding so much to the excitement of reading a book.”

And, “if children are not encouraged to read for pure pleasure, if they are dragged away from reading books they enjoy – including picture books – and pushed into reading educationally worthy books, then we are in danger of creating a generation of non-readers.”

He also encouraged educators and teachers to revisit picture books. “Picture books are special – they’re not like anything else. Sometimes I hear parents encouraging their children to read what they call proper books (books without pictures), at an earlier and earlier age. This makes me sad, as picture books are perfect for sharing, and not just with the youngest children. As a father, I understand the importance of the bond that develops through reading picture books with your child.”

‘We have in Britain some of the best picture book makers in the world, and I want to see their books appreciated for what they are – works of art.”

Schools have been ordered to overhaul their English teaching after a three-year study by the education watchdog, Ofsted, found that 30% of lessons are not good enough and little attempt is made to encourage teenagers to read for pleasure.

The report was based on inspectors’ visits to English lessons in 242 schools from 2005 to 2008. Although recent developments were praised, test results on the whole have hardly improved since 2004.

Singapore children asking for more time to read for pleasure
In Singapore, children in primary schools are engaged daily for at least 30 minutes of silent reading, which is usually carried out in the assembly hall; although the activity is recently held in classrooms instead due to H1N1. Students are allowed to read anything other than text books, comics and other academic materials such as composition handbooks. As to whether a child is truly reading a book, or simply glancing at the words in it, is probably still a question only he or she can tell you.

A study made by an associate professor at Nanyang Technology University on the reading habits of Singapore children revealed that 62% of the students said that they read to get better grades in their tests and examinations or taking reading as a way to improve language skills as their motivations for reading. Slightly over 20% of the students said that most of the time they read because their parents or teachers asked them to do so.

Clearly, only a limited number of the students were reading for relaxation. This could only possibly be due to stressful Singapore education system which places high emphasis on meritocracy and good grades. Students, including those in the lower primary level (6 and 7 years of age), often face pressure from their parents and teachers to improve their academic performance. Many expressed the wish to have more time for fun reading.

It is, therefore, desirable that Singapore Ministry of Education (MOE), schools as well as parents should consider reducing workload of primary school children so that they may find sufficient time and energy for fun reading.

The other dimension of this issue is that often children of Generation Z have a fixed amount of time and energy for leisure activities and, in addition to fun reading, many activities are competing for their time and attention. With more and more children being technologically savvy, books may perceived as less appealing and exciting in comparison to, say, a cutting-edge handheld game gadget, a fashionable mobile phone or the latest computer activities. Afterall, it does take a bit more brain cells and patience to digest a good story than watching a DVD or playing games on the Internet.

However, we already know that at the end, their imagination and intellectual curiosity is more likely expand hundred times more with books. Through the power and music and magic of stories and poems that children can also develop the empathy and awareness that they will need to tackle the complexities of their own emotions, of the human condition in which they find in themselves.

What can you do to encourage reading for pleasure?
Teachers and parents can play an important role in educating children how to keep a balance in their leisure activities, including reading for pleasure.

Children model after their parents’ lifestyle. I think that how do you instill in a child not to pick their food is similar to how you instill the joy of reading in a child. With eating, you, as a parent, must not be choosy or overly bias (with exception to junk food) and encourage your child to try out a good variety of healthy food. With reading, you must first make sure your child sees you reading for pleasure other than at read-aloud time that you and your child can do together before sleeping. Sharing with your child your enthusiasm for whatever you are reading is also a good way to cultivate his or her interest in reading.

My story:
I think I am personally a fairly late convert. My parents speak only Mandarin, Hokkien and Teochew. They were born during post occupation. They came from poor family and had only a few years of education. My mum learnt Teochew (a chinese dialect) through Chinese opera performing, which was her career for many years from the age of 12 until she married my dad. She learnt to read Chinese characters in the opera script. Mandarin was picked up probably in the 80s when television became popular in homes. My dad had to work since very very young, probably about 6 years old. He helped in the farm, grew vegetable and crops, raised pigs, chicken and ducks. My grandmother, who came to Singapore from China in a junk with her mother and sister, was a single mum to nine children, including those of my grandaunt’s own and adopted. All of them lived together under one scrap-metal roof where the toilet was a few yards outside the house. My grandaunt worked as a samsui woman (labour worker at construction sites) while my grandmother ran the household and a farm at home. My father had to give up school before he became a young adult to work as a carpenter, a chicken rice seller and a hawker to live. He had never given up learning languages and acquired sufficient reading skill to comprehend the newspaper and written materials that he finds interesting to read.

During my primary school days, if I am honest, I read to get through book reviews and exams. I didn’t do well in English because there was no help from home and school. And because English was my weakest subject, I find myself struggling with chapter books, which were the only kind of books we were allowed to read and review. I can’t recall much of what I read other than some of Enid Blyton’s and Hans Christian Anderson’s books, and Z for Zachariah by Robert C. O’Brien, a story about life after a nuclear disaster. No one introduced me to AA Milne, Beatrix Potter, Dr Suess or Roald Dahl, whom I believe I would have love to read if I had known them.

Time flew and I was in secondary school. I don’t know how or why I became very interested in literature and turned out to be good at it. Shakespeare was my favourite. I even bought the whole collection of his works later on in life. I guess it was probably then I began to like books a little more. I also signed on as a student librarian at my school for a year or two. As I grew older, books became my life companion. I even worked in a bookshop for a while. After meeting my husband, who is an avid reader, I was introduced to some more world’s best authors including J R.R Tolkien, CS Lewis, Issac Asimov, and many more.

I feel very fortunate to be in the children’s book industry. Not only that I get to read for knowledge and pleasure, sharing stories with children, I even get to meet and work with authors and be the first few to read their stories that can add sparkles to a child’s life (and mine too). Every night, I also get to read aloud to my daughters all the best books ever written. What a blessing … all from my love for reading.

So, it’s really never too late to become a bookworm or raise one.

And it’s definitely not too late to experience every little heartfelt magical moments that you can discover between the lines in books.

Dr Seuss in I can Read with my Eyes Shut said: “The more you read, the more things you will know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.” While Roald Dahl in Charlie and Chocolate Factory beseeched: “So please, oh PLEASE, we beg, we pray, go throw your TV set away, And in its place you can install, a lovely bookshelf on the wall!”

To end, I would like to quote from author Emma Walton Hamilton, author of Raising Bookworms: Getting kids Reading for Pleasure and Empowerment:

“Let’s help our kids to access the innate joy and empowerment in exploring the ideas and insights of great writers, thinkers, artists, and philosophers. Let’s imagine a world in which they actually participate, with active voices, informed opinions, and the real hope of being heard. Let’s get started right now.”

I am off to read John Danalis' new novel Riding The Black Cockatoo before I hit the sack. He said to me: "There is healing smokes within the pages. Breathe and enjoy!"

Sources and links:
Telegraph UK
Guardian UK
Independent UK
Timesonline UK
Children's Laureate UK
Children's Book Council of Australia
Wall Street Journal Online

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28 October 2011 - Myra Garces-Bacsal did an extensive series of interviews with Ken Spillman on his works at Gathering Book: Intro, Part 1, Part 2, Part3 and Part 4.

A bundle of joy

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 08:13:00 +0000

24 July 2009
As you can see, I am not writing and posting as quickly as I want to. Some notes are over 3 weeks old! I just write and save, edit, then write some more, save some more, and edit some more.

Now I can only jot down snippets of events and happenings that I can remember as my fingers type away.

I had a really fantastic day yesterday. Met up with a friend from Australia yesterday. It was really good hanging out over lunch and talk about books and book creation - something we both are exceedingly passionate about. There is something magical about blank paper or canvas. Anything can happen. Then we went to meet some corporate people to talk business (thanks to Andy Yang, a superbly talented artist I met through Organisation of Illustrators Council). That was serious but fun at the same time.

After that meeting, we talk some more all the way to meet another friend, Mukul Deva, Military Action Thriller writer of Lashkar series (which gotten Bollywood's interest) and Salim Must Die, published by Harper Collins India. Mukul is also a corporate coach and the author of several corporate titles. You can find out more about this prolific writer on his website: www.mukuldeva.com or on Business Times as well as other major publications if you google him.

This morning, my publisher, Ethos Books passed me the scans for the watercolour paintings. I will be spending the next few days cleaning up digital illustrations to get them ready for layout. Prepress stage - the final leg before the book gets printed and send to the bookshops. What a great feeling!

Must go now. Getting long again. Have a great weekend folks. Drop me a comment, an email if you like. Ta ta for now!

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21 July 2009 Tuesday
I can almost call it a wrap for my book. I handed over all illustrations for my book to my very very patient publisher today. I should get the high resolution scans in three to four days time and do some cleaning up on them before the text are laid in.

While waiting, I have to catch up with a few things. That includes spring cleaning the whole house and continue my classical art training. It has been a long time since I give the house a thorough scrub and get rid all the cobwebs (not much), toys and papers (tons and tons). It will take me a few days going through every single corner and shelf. I drew almost everyday the last few weeks. Mostly for my book but nothing particular for study. Now that I am done with my book (illustrations wise at least), I can get back to my drawing board.

A friend living in Australia has commissioned me to do a portrait of her children. I am really looking forward to draw portraits again. I had so much fun sketching Hannah and Heather.

My author, Adeline Foo, will be arranging a few book launches. Beside reading and book signing, I have to think about activities for kids. Think ... think ... think ...

I am happy that things are finally moving along. Time to get on with the chores. Lunch first.

Forgot to mention website. I need one real soon.

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10 June 2009 Friday
Finally over with the tap and modern dance exam. Hannah said she was a little bit nervous but the examiner was very friendly and it went well. The girls were given extra time to practise. I rather enjoyed watching the girls and boys tapping away with the jazzy beats.

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7 June 2009 Tuesday already.
Hannah has been practising intensively everyday for her tap and modern dance exam for the past few weeks. Took her some effort to get the steps and hand-and-feet coordination in sync with the music.

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3 July 2009 Friday
Gosh ... it's Friday again! Can somebody slow down time?

I meant to post earlier but, as usual, I got caught up with a couple other things that work-at-home mums got to do. Namely, cooking, doing the laundry, getting kids ready for school, cleaning up the house, replying emails, updating my Facebook, finishing up my last piece of illustration for my children's picture book, researching on book marketing ... ... Twitter? Nah, no time for twitter.

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29 June 2009 Monday
It's amazing how quickly (and easily) kids adjust to changes. School reopens today which means life is now restored.

Heather, who had been sleeping till 9am during the school holiday, managed to get out of bed at 7am without complains this morning. Like before, I carried her to the toilet for a wee, get her teeth brushed and face washed. She got changed into her uniform that seems shorter again. School bus arrived 20 minutes later and off she went.

Hannah, who is lucky to sleep till 9am as she attends the afternoon session, was pleased to be back at school. Her bag were packed last week (though she changed to another bag this morning). She watched the clock and got herself dressed.

The house is really quiet when the girls are at school at different time. Instead of bickering, they actually had a nice conversation with each other at dinner and before they went to bed. I too feel more relax without having to be the mediator of their "mummy, she did this to me". I hope this pleasantness last!

Good book, good food, good company

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Sun, 07 Jun 2009 13:36:00 +0000

The first week of the school holiday has gone so very quickly. Jon and I managed to get out of the house to do something fun with the girls. This week is all about books, food and company of friends.

Last weekend, Adeline, Kowling and I hosted two little workshops at the National Museum of Singapore. Hannah and Heather had a great time playing with Kowling's daughter Ashley on Saturday. After the workshop, we lunched at a cafe restaurant at Dhoby Exchange. I think it's called Just Acia. We enjoyed our afternoon there as there is a little play corner for kids while the adults get free flow of coffee tea and ice cream. But having said that, we all had only one each. After a nice meal, we dropped by the World Book Fair to meet our distributor.

(L to R: Adeline, Me, Stephanie and Kowling at MarketAsia booth)

On Sunday, Selena and Boo brought Gareth and Gawain to the museum. While I was doing the workshop, the girls went exploring the museum and had lots of fun with their friends. After that we spend a splendid afternoon with Selena and her family.

On Monday, I attended a thank you dinner organised by the very nice people from the museum with my usual coterie. Hannah had a good time hanging out with Ashley and Ben. It was a pleasure meeting others who participated in the Children's Season 2009.

Thursday was interesting. We were invited to the opening of Namiko Chan's solo art show "Divergence" by her husband Aaron Lee, a newly found friend I met at Little Lit. Namiko's exhibit will run from 5th to 27th June at the Fost Gallery (near Mohd Sultan Road). That evening, we took the opportunity to experience a taste of French. We dined at Brasserie Wolf by the river bank at The Pier. The girls enjoyed tucking into their gourmet ham and seafood pasta while Jon and I savoured our Roasted Rabbit. After an incredible feast, we strolled down the river to Clarke Quay. We stopped by the Crazy Elephant before we called it a night.

The next day, we slept in till 10. Jon took a day off work to bring the girls to the Science Centre while I joined the Little Lit gang at a Filipino art exhibit at the Royal Plaza and a pretty good local fare at The Canteen at Shaw Scott. Thanks to Eugene of Monster Under The Bed (MUTB)!

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Adeline, Kowling and I would like to thank everyone who came and join us at the National Museum last weekend. We had fun and look forward to seeing everyone again.

An afternoon of enriching the creative minds at Little Lit

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Thu, 28 May 2009 12:36:00 +0000

The inaugural “Little Lit: Enriching Minds & Igniting A Writer’s Spark”, a Pre-Festival Event of the Singapore Writers Festival held at The Arts House on 24th May 2009, was a huge success.

Many heartfelt thanks to our sponsors and organisers - National Arts Council, The Art House, Monsters Under The Bed and Singapore Press Holdings, our publishers Ethos Books and Epigram, our distributor Marketasia everyone who helped out as well as ALL who attended the event.

The panel of speakers including poet Aaron Lee, authors Adeline Foo and Felix Cheong, together with illustrators Joshua Chiang, Lee Kowling, Stephanie Wong and myself were greeted by 200 odd attendees including children, parents, teachers, writers, aspiring writers and illustrators, plus many others who are keen to learn more about writing and illustrating for children.

All of us had lots of fun sharing with everyone our knowledge, journey and passion for children’s literature.

Adeline Foo, author of 13 children’s books, talked about the various career choices for a writer, and other aspects of writing such as book marketing, as well as sharing her process of writing The Diary of Amos Lee, a new book she collaborated with illustrator/book designer Stephanie Wong, who talked about the process in designing the character for Amos Lee and how to create illustrations and book cover for a novel that works.

Aaron Lee, a prize winning poet, an excellent speaker who was also the brilliant moderator for the event, talked about his love for poetry. He shared with us many inspiring poems that touch the hearts of children and adults.

Felix Cheong, an award winning poet and novelist, shared his wisdom on writing fiction for the tweens (children between 9 to 14 years old)and tips on penning the first word. A former TV producer and studio director,with the help of three youngsters, he demonstrated the use of sound to dramatise storytelling.

For me, it was a great privilege to speak at “Little Lit”. This is the first time artists are featured as part of the Singapore Writers Festival, which is Singapore’s most prestigious and only national literary festival.

My talk about Asian Influence in Children's Books covered a brief presentation of my work and illustration style for children’s books,a showcase of children's book illustrators in Asia, an introduction to Asian heritage, a peek into my childhood as a child to a Chinese opera performer and how I incorporate Asian elements, in terms of Chinese values and arts, in my new book “Guai Wu The Monster Child”, a story set in China during the Qing Dynasty, which should be in major bookstores by July.

Joshua Chiang, an all rounded animator and illustrator, shared his experience, tips and tricks on how he goes about creating his characters for cartoons and his first children’s book. His philosophy “Remain a child at heart always” conveys the message from every children’s book writer and illustrator.

Lee Kowling, a veteran in the book illustration scene, took us through her journey as an illustrator from the 90s till now. She explained how she developed a wide variety of illustration styles to meet the needs of the stories she worked on. It was a visual feast for the audience.

We look forward to bringing back the event again.

Little Lit, grooming Singapore's next generation of writers
From 8 to 16, they came and absorbed everything about writing and publishing

Mr Phan Ming Yen (Director of The Arts House) gave an opening speech.

Speakers Felix Cheong, Adeline Foo, Stephanie Wong

Illustrators panel - Joshua Chiang, Christine Lim, Lee Kowling

Poet, emcee and moderator Aaron Lee

The crowd of 200 plus parents and children (Many others had to be turned away, our sincere apologies)

Educational Holiday Fun for Kids and Families at the International Museum Day

noreply@blogger.com (Christine Lim) — Fri, 15 May 2009 01:45:00 +0000

School holiday will be here again soon. Got any plans for your kids?

How about some educational and fun activities that promise to entertain, engage and intrigue your children during the 10-days celebration of the International Museum Day 2009!

This years focus for IMD'09 is on children and young families. The theme which runs from 23rd May to 31st May 2009 is "Holiday Fun at Home‟.

Said Ms Cheryl Koh, Deputy Director of Corporate Communications and Industry Promotion at the National Heritage Board: “We know that given the economic climate, families may be cutting back on travelling this year. But they can still have fun right here with many of our free activities across more than 14 museums.”

IMD'09 will feature a Family Carnival at National Museum. A slew of activities awaits including puppet and storytelling performances, craft workshops, and even an interactive playground for young children.

You and your family can look forward to a Chinese culture medley at the Asian Civilisations Museum, a healthy ice-cream making at Healthzone, adventure trails at Baba House and the National Archives of Singapore, and the “I Can Guide” programme at the Peranakan Museum, which trains children to be museum guides for their own peers.

“We have found that “I Can Guide” is a great way for children to develop confidence in their social and language skills, and at the same time cultivate a personal interest in their heritage. Many of our activities have a soft educational component and history lessons for one, will never be the same again!,” said Ms Koh.

This is the fourth year that the National Heritage Board (NHB) is organising the International Museum Day in Singapore. During the period of IMD'09, all of NHB's museums will have Open House days, the public can enjoy free admission to international blockbuster exhibitions such as Christian Lacroix the costumer at the National Museum of Singapore and The Kangxi Emperor: Treasures from the Forbidden City at the Asian Civilisations Museum. To wrap up their journey at the museums, visitors will be spoilt for choice with the many F&B outlets to dine at.

Besides all NHB museums, the Marina Barrage, NEWater Visitors Centre, Malay Heritage Centre, and red dot Museum, will allow the public to enter free of charge on 31 May. Senior citizens can also enjoy free entry to all NHB's museums and the Malay Heritage Centre on 25 May.

More detail listings
Please refer to Annex A for a detailed list of participating museums in the Open House Day and other promotions and Annex B for detailed listing of events and workshops that you may find useful.

About The International Museum Day
The International Museum Day (IMD) has been celebrated by thousands of museum all over the world since 1977.

Since 2006, National Heritage Board (NHB) has celebrated IMD in Singapore through events and activities at NHB's museums during the last two weeks of May and will continue to be focused on public outreach with a primary focus on families and children this year to foster a museum going culture from young. The theme of IMD‟09 is Holiday Fun at Home!

More information about IMD 2009 can be found at http://www.museums.com.sg/imd09/.

ANNEX A OPEN HOUSE DAYS
31 May
National Museum of Singapore
Mint Museum of Toys
Malay Heritage Centre
24 May
Raffles Museum of Biodiversity Research
30-31 May
Asian Civilisations Museum
31 May
Singapore Philatelic Museum
Singapore Art Museum
8Q sam - contemporary art wing of SAM
Marina Barrage
May Malay Heritage Centre
NEWater Visitors Centre
May red dot museum

(Please click on the image to see enlarged image)

Have fun! : )

PS: I will be doing a workshop with author Adeline and two other illustrators Kowling and Joshua as part of National Museum's special event Children's Season. Our event title is Behind the Scene of Picture Books - From ideas to words and art. Date: 30 & 31 May 2009. Time: 10am to 1130am. See you there!

I will be hosting the 31st workshop with Adeline. Please book in advance with SISTIC, the official ticketing office.
Information on their website: www.sistic.com