Books, videos, and websites for Third Culture Kids
This is a story about a young MK’s first days in American school after living in France. Colorful watercolor illustrations and simple sensitive writing make this book a good one for young children, especially those going through reentry.
Reading level: age 5-8 years
This collection of short poems tells the story of a Chinese American brother and sister moving away from their home and extended family in San Francisco. Their grandmother gives them each a memory box to fill with tiny treasures as they make the journey to their new home. This melancholy book could help kids in the midst of a move and inspire them to savor memories and say goodbye well.
“For their move far away, Gracie and Jake are sad to leave
the golden bridge,
the trolley tracks,
and Nai Nai.
“But they fill empty boxes with treasures—
a marble, a snake,
a pair of wings.
Tiny reminders of all they love—
so happiness stays close,
no matter where they go.”
Reading level: age 5 to 8 years
Though not a TCK story, The Lotus Seed illustrates the preciousness of those special mementos we carry with us to remind us of where we used to live. It’s the story of a young Vietnamese girl who saves a lotus seed and carries it with her to remember her homeland after she flees to America, and her sorrow when she believes she has lost it forever. The story of a woman who adapts to a new way of life without forgetting her past, this book has gorgeous illustrations and a beautiful, poignant story that even teens and adults can appreciate.
Reading level: age 6 to 9 years, and applicable to older children and teens as well.
“I live at 165 East 95th Street, and I’m going to stay here forever,” the East Coast boy announces at the start of this entertaining little book. He worries about what his new home will be like when he moves out West from New York City. Then he discovers a boy moving from the west to New York who has the similar fears. This book is funny and helps kids acknowledge fears and confront stereotypes about the place they’re moving to. Its focus is on moves within the US but could be applied to international moves as well.
Reading level: age 5 and up.
TCKs –MKs in particular– can have mixed experiences in US American churches, both in visiting when their families are fundraising in churches, and when they try to find a church home when they’re older. In these interviews TCKs are asked:
Based on a survey and interviews of over 300 TCKs, this book describes the impact of living overseas during childhood and/or adolescence. The description of overseas life, reentry into the U.S., and the long-term effects of their experiences will resonate with older TCKs and can help parents better understand their children, especially their teens and young adults. The author grew up in overseas with her parents who were in the Foreign Service (Diplomatic Corp).