Understanding Singaporeans

By Edmund Wee

A series of illustrated guides to introduce young children to different races, and their beliefs and customs, each with 20 questions and answers to promote understanding of the different races and cultures in Singapore.

Format: Paperback
Pages: 44

WINNER OF SINGAPORE BOOK AWARDS 2018, BEST MIDDLE GRADE/YOUNG ADULT TITLE

Suitable for ages 7 and above.

Read if you: realise you don't know the answer to the title question.

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Why Do Malays Avoid Pork? 
Why do Malays use “bin” and “binte” in their names? Why are there two Hari Rayas? Why do women cover their heads? We provide the answers — and useful tips as well — to some of the most-asked questions young Singaporeans have about the Malay community, including why green is special to Malays.

Why Do Indians Dot Their Foreheads? 
Why do Indians hang mango leaves in doorways? Why is it called a mama shop? Where does roti prata come from? We provide the answers — and useful tips as well— to some of the most-asked questions young Singaporeans have about the Indian community, including why some Indians wear turbans.

Why Do Eurasians Love Sugee Cake? 
How can you tell if someone is Eurasian? What is Eurasian food? Is kaya a “Eurasian jam”? We provide the answers—and useful tips as well—to some of the most-asked questions young Singaporeans have about Eurasians, including why we don’t have a “Eurasiatown”.

Why Do the Chinese Shout “Yam Seng”?
Why do the Chinese eat noodles at wedding dinners? Why do they hang blankets around HDB void decks after a funeral? Why is Chinatown called “cow car water”? We provide the answers— and useful tips as well—to some of the most-asked questions young Singaporeans have about the Chinese, including what a “red tortoise cake” is.