Authors of bilingual children’s book tour EMSB schools ahead of Lunar New Year

Ahead of Chinese New Year, the authors of Ellie Awakens the Spirits of Tam Kung Temple are visiting nine English Montreal School Board (EMSB) schools as part of a special book tour celebrating Chinese-Canadian history.

The richly illustrated, bilingual children’s book marks the 150th anniversary of Tam Kung Temple, Canada’s oldest Chinese temple. The story follows a young protagonist who uncovers the experiences of early Chinese Canadian pioneers while exploring the historic site, highlighting how spiritual spaces provided comfort, community, and continuity for immigrants facing hardship and discrimination.

Co-author Lori Wong, along with Linda Chu of the Yen Wo Society, will visit Montreal schools to read from the book and lead discussions with students about early Chinese immigrant experiences and the cultural significance of Tam Kung Temple.

The project was funded by the Government of Canada in recognition of the temple’s 150th anniversary, celebrated from 1876 to 2026.