Lawson skilfully interweaves the narratives of present and past, exploring the concerns of each on many levels. 'White Jade Tiger opens up a window onto another world, and allows recognition of the riches inherent in another culture.' - Kathleen Bailey 'This is a complex and ambitious first novel. Using references to local geography, Chinatown and transportation methods of the 1880s to stimulate discussion about this era, Nilsen allows students to investigate a lively period in British Columbian history. Nilsen focuses on the building of the CPR, as well as the working and living conditions, ancient culture and mythological beliefs of the Chinese employees. Now, it can be shared with an entire class using Anne Nilsen's thoughtful and imaginative teacher's guide which incorporates visuals, creative exercises and multi-media resources in an exploration of Chinese immigration to British Columbia.

Egoff Children's Literature Award and is a CCBC notable. White Jade Tiger is the winner of the Sheila A. These three stories from the ancient past, the historical past and the present provide a fascinating perspective on Chinese and North American culture and how both have merged to create the British Columbia of today. Through Bright Jade and her journeys into the past, Jasmine discovers long-hidden secrets of her own past, and comes to see her family-and herself-in a new light.

Throughout the novel, Julie Lawson also weaves the story of Bright Jade (a tale that dates back to the time of the Qin Dynasty) whose spirit appears to both Jasmine and Keung in their dreams and whose mystical powers are linked to the white jade tiger. Jasmine joins him on his quest, but soon discovers that they are searching for more than just Keung's father-the white jade tiger, an amulet from ancient times, must also be found. There, she meets Keung, a 16-year-old boy who has recently arrived from China to search for his father, believed to be one of the thousands of Chinese working on the hazardous construction of the Canadian Pacific Railway through the infamous 'Hell's Gate' of the Fraser Canyon. Book Description: On a field trip to Chinatown in Victoria, BC, thirteen-year-old Jasmine Steele passes through a doorway and finds herself in the Fan Tan Alley of the 1880's.

White Jade Tiger by Julie Lawson