Moving To Hong Kong: 5 Books You Should Read With Your Children

Help your family adjust to life in Hong Kong with the help of these fiction books for kids.

Moving country can be daunting for both you and your children. Get prepared (and excited!) for all the different tastes, customs and traditions of Hong Kong before you leave home with these five great kids reads. We’re not going to lie, there are some big adjustments ahead, but these will help replace some of those nerves with anticipation for the adventure that awaits.

Read more: Extracurricular Activities And Classes In Hong Kong: From Toddlers To Teens

Author: M Sasek
Best for: Kids aged 0 to 5

This beautifully illustrated book is a wonderful way to show off the historical side to the quirky city you will soon call home. A classic from the 1960s, it paints a picture of Hong Kong that is just as recognisable today, from the trams winding through the city to the busy streets of Central. Sasek perfectly captures the fast-paced hustle and bustle of the concrete jungle and draws a charming comparison between then and now in his final page, “This is Hong Kong Today”.

Available online from Book Depository 

Author: Thea Whittington
Best for: Kids aged 0 to 5

Contrary to popular belief, Hong Kong is not all city! In fact, it’s home to some of the most picturesque hiking trails in Asia, The Dragon’s Back being a family favourite. This book follows the story of a family setting off for a weekend hike and is bound to have your kids racing for the great outdoors.

Available online from Book Depository or Amazon

Author: Nina Simonds
Best for: Kids aged 6 to 8

One of the best things about Hong Kong is the public holidays. Not only does it have more than most countries in the world, but we are also blessed with accompanying festivals rich with culture and tradition. This book is a lovely introduction to Chinese holidays, legends and customs and is packed with fun crafts and recipes to get you and your children ready for the festivities.

Available online at Book Depository or Amazon 

Authors: Sarah Brennan and Harry Harrison
Best for: Kids aged 6+

From “The Tale of Ming Kee Monkey” to “The Tale of Oswald Ox”, Brennan explores the story of each Chinese zodiac animal in a way that is both irresistible and captivating. A great way for your children to learn about Chinese history and folklore while being thoroughly entertained. They’ll love to find out whether they are a kind dragon or cunning snake and what it all means.

Available online at Auspicious Times, Amazon, or in store at Bookazine (various locations)

Author: Cheryl Yau Chepusova
Best for: Kids aged 0 to 5

One of the biggest differences you’ll notice when you move to Hong Kong is the food! From assorted dim sum to wonton noodles, Big Cities Little Foodies: Hong Kong teaches little ones about numbers and food, with bold and stylised illustrations.

Available online at Bookwise

Read more: Unusual Sports For Girls: Stepping Out Of The “Safe Zone”

Editor’s Note: This article was originally written by British Tutors on 12, August 2016 and was updated by Jess Mizzi on 11, October 2019.