"A story of generational and cultural differences between mother/daughter"
Endearing illustrations show Mahlee learning how differently Mommy did things as a child in Laos than she does in America.
ABOUT THE BOOK
About the Author
Vilayvanh Bender immigrated to America, along with her family, as a young refugee girl after the Vietnam War. Without knowing the language, her first goal in the United States was to become fluent in English.
She now lives in Southern California with her husband and two girls. Vilayvanh believes in the importance of cultural preservation
Vilayvanh Bender immigrated to America, along with her family, as a young refugee girl after the Vietnam War. Without knowing the language, her first goal in the United States was to become fluent in English.
She now lives in Southern California with her husband and two girls. Vilayvanh believes in the importance of cultural preservation and acceptance. Mommy Eats Fried Grasshoppers is based on the original story of her childhood in Laos vs. her daughter’s life in the United States. She is also a private-practice Registered Dietitian based in Corona, California working with children and families.
Sharing dishes and trying new foods are two of her favorite pastimes. Most of all, she enjoys laughing and making memories with her family and friends.
Inspirations behind the book
Little did Vilayvanh know that the stories she shared with her daughters about her childhood in Laos would become a children's book.
The Lao stories were told at bedtime to Mahlee and Leela so they could learn more about their mom. Mahlee later shared those stories with her first grade teacher Ms. Ajemian. Curious about the truth of the tales, Ms. Ajemian had to verify it with Vilayvanh. To her surprise, it all added up and they were true accounts. These were stories of Vilayvanh making toys out of banana tree parts, snacking on grasshoppers and many more interesting aspects of Lao life and culture.
Intrigued by what she learned from Vilayvanh, Ms. Ajemian asked if she would share about her life experiences with the class. Vilayvanh happily accepted and presented the 1st Lao Culture Day to a class full of eager students.
She brought things about her childhood and Lao food to share. The presentation was a big hit and Vilayvanh still goes back every year to share Lao Cultural Day with Ms. Ajemian’s first graders. As the years went by, the presentation grew and it became the catalyst for a children’s book.
Inspired by what took place in a classroom and the desire of a mom to teach her daughters about her Lao cultural heritage, Mommy Eats Fried Grasshoppers was published eight years later. Over the years, the story evolved into what it is today. The main character Mahlee and sister Leela are all grown up, but the book’s timeless charm continues to delight!