Powerful Like a Dragon

By Christopher Cheng & Jacquiline Tam

Reviewed by Margarite Igras

Acclaimed author Christopher Cheng recounts a personal family story of courage and survival seen through the eyes of a child. The child in question was his uncle Shu Lok and the story takes place in 1941, during the Japanese invasion of the British colony of Hong Kong. It is an honest and heartfelt story aimed at ages 5+ but also, at a more mature audience, with added information at the end of the book covering the historical context of the war in 1941, The accompanying illustrations by Jaqueline Tam combines both realistic scenes and dragon fantasy, in a visually engaging 40 pages of storytelling.

Shu Lok didn’t know there was a war outside until the Japanese commander stormed into his village.  He was a young boy, whose life changed overnight. Uncles and aunts, cousins and brothers would leave with Ah Meng and other workers.  But Shu Lok’s parents would remain. His father’s parting words to his son as he was tucked into a basket next to his cousin was “Be powerful like a dragon” These words became a source of strength during the 200-mile trek into China and safety.

Jacqueline Tam’s sweeping, evocative illustrations complement the simple text of the narrative and will resonate with both children and adults. The monochrome palette is sombre and at time bleak, but there is hope that weaves through the pages in the metaphor of a bright dragon with a message that even if food and comfort are scarce, strength, resilience, and kindness can always be found.

This is a beautifully crafted book about a child’s experience of war, adversity and survival. Just like the mantra of the powerful dragon, we all have the potential to be resilient, kind and to have empathy with the many refugees who have had to flee their homeland to find safety.

Roaring Brook Press 2025

Christopher Cheng

Jacquiline Tam