BOOK CLUB

I Love You, Little Dumpling

Conny Wong discusses her pandemic-inspired children’s book with Gemma Shaw

As founder of gorgeous children’s shoe brand Pepper & Mint, what motivated you to write a book?

The pandemic has meant my little family spending a lot of time together, giving me the unique opportunity to really spend time with my children. Some days have been difficult, but I always wanted my kids to know how much I cherish our time together. That’s where I came up with the idea to write a book for them. During this strange time, I also turned my focus to writing as part of my own personal time to find peace during our uncertain world.

What’s the book about?

I love you, Little Dumpling is a board book for children aged up to four years old. It is a lullaby, intended to be read together as a bedtime story. The takeaway message for children is that they are loved wholly and unconditionally. The story developed from a poem that I wrote for my children when they were babies and has been an integral part of our bedtime routine.

Why dumplings?

I affectionately call my own children ‘little dumplings’. This book pays homage to them and to Hong Kong - a city that we love so much for many reasons, one being the delicious cuisine. Whilst we may not stay in Hong Kong forever, this book will be a permanent memory of this incredible city where our children were born and are fortunate to spend their early years.

How did you connect with the illustrator?

I was connected to my wonderful Indonesian illustrator Ms. Zahra whilst in Jakarta at the beginning of last year. She was excited when she read my poem and I was so thankful to find someone so passionate. Ms. Zahra speaks Bahasa Indonesia which luckily I am fluent in, this played a major role in our smooth communication and bringing the book together visually.

Can you tell us about your kids’ bedtime routine?

My husband and I believe that a good bedtime routine is key to a good night’s sleep. Ours involves a bath followed by a bedtime story and prayers, before lights out. Since my kids are young, they find the rhythm reassuring and calming so it was important for me to create something that could be read as a rhythmic lullaby.

What’s next?

I Love You, Little Dumpling is the first book under my new label Mini Love Tales. I’m planning to release more children’s books under this label with a focus on celebrating cultural diversity, nurturing respect, empathy and acceptance.

Venture Studios

I Love You, Little Dumpling is available online at $100, or the set is $220 and includes a cute matching baby dumpling soft toy. Also available in Bookazine stores, Eslite Bookstores, and Great Food Hall.

minilovetales.com