Barbara Kennedy, a student in UBC’s Chinese Language Program, has turned a class assignment into a heartwarming legacy. What began as a project for CHIN 333 blossomed into a beautifully crafted children’s book that weaves together language, family, and cultural tradition. The project was more than an academic task—it became a gift to her granddaughter and a reflection on the importance of cultural storytelling across generations.
The book, titled “你的文化是怎么称呼 Grandmother?” (“How Does Your Culture Call Grandmother?”), stemmed from Barbara’s fascination with how different cultures honor grandmothers. “I’ve had the idea for a children’s book swirling in my mind for years but never found the time to bring it to life,” Barbara shared. “When Lee Laoshi assigned our class to write a book in both Chinese and English using BookCreator, it felt like the universe was telling me to stop procrastinating!”
Barbara Kennedy, a Chinese language student from CHIN 333
Barbara’s granddaughter, Madeline, born in December 2013, was a key inspiration behind the project. The story revolves around Madeline and her friend having a lively discussion about why Madeline calls her grandmother “Nainai.” The dual-language format not only celebrates their bond but also provides a vehicle for passing on cultural heritage in a tangible, accessible way.
The experience of creating the book was deeply personal for Barbara. “I wanted to write something special, drawing from my experiences reading countless children’s books to my kids and now my grandkids,” she said. Her exploration of cultural terms for “grandmother” reflects both the love she holds for her family and her desire to instill cultural awareness in the next generation.
The cover of Barbara’s book titled “你的文化是怎么称呼Grandmother?”
Under the guidance of her teacher, Li-Jung Lee, Barbara not only completed the project but also gained the confidence to publish it as a formal book. “Lee Laoshi encouraged me to explore my idea, emphasizing the importance of relationships in Chinese culture. With her guidance, I completed my story and decided to publish it as a formal children’s book to share with family and friends.”
The process was rewarding for both Barbara and her family. The familiar scenes in the book — such as their family car, the dog, and her son’s saxophone—made it relatable and beloved by her loved ones. Her granddaughter, Madeline, was thrilled with the result and even asked, “When will you write your next one?”
Barbara and her granddaughter Madeline
Reflecting on her journey, Barbara’s connection to the Chinese language deepened through the project. As a third-generation Chinese-Canadian who grew up speaking English, her understanding of her heritage and cultural identity expanded through her studies. “Before taking CHIN 331/333, I didn’t know much about Yunnan. Learning about it in class inspired me to include it in my story!” Barbara explained. She has spent the last few years immersing herself in Chinese language learning, whether by watching Chinese web dramas or studying independently.
Her teacher, Li-Jung Lee, highlighted the impact of Barbara’s project: “Creative projects like Barbara’s storybook truly elevate the language learning experience by empowering students with a sense of ownership over their linguistic journey.” According to Lee, the act of writing a story in a second language goes beyond vocabulary and grammar; it’s about expressing cultural understanding and fostering personal connections.
UBC Lecturer in Chinese Language Li-Jung Lee
For Barbara, the project wasn’t just about language acquisition—it was about building relationships across generations. Through her book, she found a way to share her cultural heritage with her granddaughter and, in doing so, deepened her own connection to her roots. Her project is a reminder of the enduring power of storytelling, not only as an educational tool but as a bridge that connects us across time and culture.
Barbara’s advice for students who want to engage in creative projects? “Follow your instincts! If you’re passionate about something, keep that spark alive. Set reminders to revisit your ideas even if you can’t act on them right away. Opportunities will arise when you least expect them and you’ll be ready to seize them!”
Barbara (left) and her CHIN 333 teacher, Li-Jung Lee (right)
Barbara’s story exemplifies how language learning can transcend the classroom and leave a lasting legacy. It’s a reminder that cultural traditions, when nurtured and shared, become gifts for future generations to cherish and explore. Through her storybook, Barbara has left a permanent mark—not just on her family, but on the broader conversation about how we preserve and pass on our heritage through storytelling.
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