Targeted at children ages 3-6, the Migrant x Me – Book & Blocks Play Set, consisting of a book and a set of wooden puzzle blocks, seeks to encourage parents and children alike to see and appreciate the contributions of the migrant worker community in Singapore.
Storybook with Activity Pages
The story “So Much to See! So Much to Hear!” is written from the perspective of a young boy, Ari. What does he see? What does he hear? Who does he meet as he goes about his week?
Find out and join him on his exciting journey of discovery!
Wooden Puzzle Blocks
The wooden blocks are designed with 8 characters on its sides.
They correspond with the occupations featured in the storyline. Suggested ways to use the blocks:
Incorporate the blocks as figurines, while reading, to act out scenes from the storybook.
Stand-alone puzzle pieces.
Open-ended conversation starters, building awareness of the contribution migrant workers make to our society.
Play Set Review
This book has been such a joy to read with my toddler on so many fronts – the easy-to-follow and read along narrative, the faithful depiction of Singapore’s everyday sights and sounds, the beautiful and realistic illustrations with surprise details to uncover. The fun use of onomatopoeia aptly presented in hand-drawn typography made the read even more enjoyable for kids (our son is able to highlight if we missed reading aloud a sound!).
It's clear that this resource has been intentionally and thoughtfully crafted, tapping on the use of repeated words to make for intuitive and fun read, with the emphasis on “so much to see, so much to hear” each day.
On top of being a child of mixed heritage, like the protagonist in the story, the diverse scenes easily set the stage for my toddler to strongly identify with Ari having recently gone through renovations in a new home in a new estate, with regular road works. It was honestly exciting for our family to be able to relate to almost all the scenes!
- Debra T
About the Creators
This initiative is by Migrant x Me, story written by Gracie Chai, book and blocks illustrated and designed by Lydia Yang.
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Writer / @graciechaiGracie Chai wears many hats. When she’s not capering with and catering to her children, she cooks, cleans and chugs caffeine. Outside from her current calling at home, she finds joy in chiseling time out to work on projects she finds meaningful — such as this set you’re holding in your hands!
You might know her as the artist behind the art installation Happy Homebodies and/or the illustrator behind the children's books The Great Singapore Poo Sale and Other Beastly Business & Make Animals Great Again and Other Creature Campaigns.
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Illustrator / @oakandbindiLydia Yang is an illustrator and graphics artist, as well as one of the co-founders of Singapore based creative studio, Tell Your Children.
Having made a career out of her illustration and design skills for close to ten years now, some notable projects she’s embarked on include commissions and collaborations from the likes of Vans, Apple, Goodluck Bunch and Esquire Singapore.
She is well known for her colorful and bold illustration style, energetic handwritten typographies along with her cute cartoon-inspired characters.