I feel like a bit of a b***hole that we enjoy this book so much. Apparently, there are some who think this book is culturally insensitive as the humor relies on a stereotype about Asian names. But, holy heck this is a fun read aloud. And I PROMISE that one day I will explain to my kid that its all complete balderdash, but for now we do enjoy the nonsensical fun!
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My aunt had this book and we read it over and over as kids. We got a kick out of the story and the impossibility of saying those names fast- it never occurred to us as kids that the story was insensitive in nature.
It didn't occur to me either Jeane - until I read some reviews. I can see where they're coming from, but I'm afraid this is one case where I have to disagree and deem it harmless. I mean it certainly plays of a silly misperception about Asian names, but surely this is something we can talk to our kids about down the road, right?
I have yet to read this one again as an adult, and now that I hear it's been criticized as being "culturally insensitive," I think I'm content to just keep my memory of it untainted. I remember really loving the way the name "Tikki Tikki Tembo" just rolled off my tongue :)
If you like this one for a fun read aloud, try The Story of Little Babaji by Helen Bannerman and Hilda and the Mad Scientist by Addie Adam. You get to use your best Indian and German accents. Not too offensive, and really, really fun.
Hi arkh! I actually have a very old copy of my father's 'Little Black Sambo' with original Helen Bannerman illustrations. Besides the title it's really a very cute/fun story. I suppose they've renamed it these days which really is probably for the best. I don't believe I've heard of Hilda and the Mad Scientist - will have to look for it. Thanks!
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