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Tofu Takes Time
Homemade tofu is good, and good things take time.
CLICK CLACK WHIRRRR . . . Lin and her grandma, NaiNai, are making tofu from scratch! When NaiNai goes through each step, from blending soybeans with water to molding curd into shape, Lin gradually becomes impatient. But she soon discovers that making tofu not only takes time, but also takes the whole universe! It takes the seed from soil and sunshine, the cloth from thread and fiber, weight and space, books of words and pictures. And most of all, it takes spending lovely time with her beloved grandmother.
In this charming tale by Helen H. Wu, readers will marvel at how patience brings a whole universe together in a simple dish made by a modern Chinese American family. Perfect for fans of Fry Bread, Drawn Together and Thank You, Omu.
CLICK CLACK WHIRRRR . . . Lin and her grandma, NaiNai, are making tofu from scratch! When NaiNai goes through each step, from blending soybeans with water to molding curd into shape, Lin gradually becomes impatient. But she soon discovers that making tofu not only takes time, but also takes the whole universe! It takes the seed from soil and sunshine, the cloth from thread and fiber, weight and space, books of words and pictures. And most of all, it takes spending lovely time with her beloved grandmother.
In this charming tale by Helen H. Wu, readers will marvel at how patience brings a whole universe together in a simple dish made by a modern Chinese American family. Perfect for fans of Fry Bread, Drawn Together and Thank You, Omu.
40 pages, Hardcover
Published April 19, 2022
4 people are currently reading
1718 people want to read
About the author
Helen H. Wu
42 books79 followersHelen H. Wu is a children’s book author and illustrator, as well as a translator and publisher. She is the author of Tofu Takes Time, illustrated by Julie Jarema (Beaming Books, 2022) and Long Goes To Dragon School, illustrated by Mae Besom (Yeehoo Press, 2023). Helen is the Associate Publisher of Yeehoo Press, a San Diego based children’s book publisher. Being fascinated by the differences and similarities between cultures, Helen loves to share stories that can empower children to understand the world and our connections. Born and raised in Hefei, China, Helen moved to the US in her 20s. Currently, she resides in sunny Southern California, with her family and two kids. Learn more about Helen at helenhwu.com and follow her on Twitter at @HelenHWu and on Instagram at @HelenHWu.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews
November 4, 2021
I’m a sucker for stories with grandmothers because I adored both of mine, so of course I was interested in this one by Helen Wu, illustrated by Julie Jarema. But I’m even more interested since it involves making tofu, one of my favorite foods. My parents used to make it (after I had moved away) but even though my husband has grown soy beans before, we never made tofu because I thought it would be hard. This book, however, with its kid-friendly illustrations and spare text, makes it seem like an achievable process and inspires me to give it a try. It’s also great how a kid can help out and gain self-confidence while learning a new skill and learning to be patient.
December 11, 2021
Tofu takes time by Helen H. Wu and illustrated by Julie Jarema is a wonderful and heartfelt story about Lin spending time with her NaiNai. Tofu takes time explores the tools and process that goes into making tofu. A dish I really love and now have a better appreciation of what goes into making it. Julie’s light and imaginative illustrations bring Helens charming text to life. Kids will want to read and make tofu after reading Tofu Take Time. There’s also a great backmatter at the end to learn more about the history of tofu.
December 4, 2021
Sweet intergenerational story focused on food and family. I love the onomatopoeia throughout the book and the theme teaching us that food from scratch takes patience and time to prepare. Great additional backmatter about tofu and an author's note. Gorgeous illustrations with soft inviting colors.
April 19, 2022
Patience is cushioned with family warmth and the joy of spending time together in a tale, which also dives into the wonder of making tofu.
There are quite a few things to enjoy about this read. First, it explains the process of making tofu from the soy beans to milk, and then, to the press. So, readers get to know exactly how tofu is made. But they learn more. As each step occurs, the next page shows where the 'ingredients' come from to make the tofu. For example, creating soy milk requires water...and this is shown with the little girl floating gleefully (with a touch of adventure) down a river. It presents the broader picture on everything, which goes into making something.
Next, there's the wonderful relationship between the grandmother and little girl. While helping to create the tofu and learn how it's done, the two spend time with each other in a caring manner, which inspires. Of course, the grandmother offers wise words as she repeats the sentence that tofu takes time. This shows that not everything can be rushed, and that, sometimes, the most valuable things need to be waited for. The author doesn't keep this as boring wait time, but has the grandmother and child doing other activities together such as reading. Not only is the idea of patience nicely brought across, but it again radiates the wonder of spending time with a loved one.
The illustrations carry a gentle atmosphere, while holding details as well as a sense of imagination, too. These balance well with the words. While telling the story and repeating the grandmother's one phrase again and again, the author has also built in sound words (such as Tik) to add a sense of playfulness. Young listeners will be able to repeat these as well as the book is picked up again and again.
And to round the entire thing off, the author adds a few words for thought at the end, explaining the history of tofu as well as her own insights while doing research on the topic.
So, there is tons of goodness in these pages and not just for the kids. I received an ARC and enjoyed the atmosphere and tale quite a bit.
There are quite a few things to enjoy about this read. First, it explains the process of making tofu from the soy beans to milk, and then, to the press. So, readers get to know exactly how tofu is made. But they learn more. As each step occurs, the next page shows where the 'ingredients' come from to make the tofu. For example, creating soy milk requires water...and this is shown with the little girl floating gleefully (with a touch of adventure) down a river. It presents the broader picture on everything, which goes into making something.
Next, there's the wonderful relationship between the grandmother and little girl. While helping to create the tofu and learn how it's done, the two spend time with each other in a caring manner, which inspires. Of course, the grandmother offers wise words as she repeats the sentence that tofu takes time. This shows that not everything can be rushed, and that, sometimes, the most valuable things need to be waited for. The author doesn't keep this as boring wait time, but has the grandmother and child doing other activities together such as reading. Not only is the idea of patience nicely brought across, but it again radiates the wonder of spending time with a loved one.
The illustrations carry a gentle atmosphere, while holding details as well as a sense of imagination, too. These balance well with the words. While telling the story and repeating the grandmother's one phrase again and again, the author has also built in sound words (such as Tik) to add a sense of playfulness. Young listeners will be able to repeat these as well as the book is picked up again and again.
And to round the entire thing off, the author adds a few words for thought at the end, explaining the history of tofu as well as her own insights while doing research on the topic.
So, there is tons of goodness in these pages and not just for the kids. I received an ARC and enjoyed the atmosphere and tale quite a bit.
December 10, 2021
I occasionally sample children's books and stumbled across this one. It's certainly not my type, I only read it because I'm also a fan of Tofu :p After reading it though, I felt so glad that I did.
It's probably not something for everyone, especially if you (or your kids) don't have much patience (like the book said - it takes time). There are no hooks, turns or drama of any kind, just a simple, heart-warming family/character-building story, blend like a tofu, feel-good like a tofu. Although somehow you do feel an elevated emotion towards the later part of the book if you go through it, probably because of all that buildups and the nice revealing. Love the illustration too, so wild, I bet kids can relate more.
I think it's a good choice for both active and quiet kids. For the active ones, they'll probably learn a thing or two, parents will need to guide them patiently, like what the grandma did to Lin. And for the quiet ones, they might find like-minded role models in the book and be assured of their unique thinking style.
Overall, a great read and definitely recommend it! In a fast-moving society that values instant satisfaction through cheap entertainment or consumerism like never before (sorry, started sounding like a Charlie Brown, lol..), Tofu Takes Time will take you through a soul-searching journey and nourish your kid's heart and mind, and that of yours as well.
It's probably not something for everyone, especially if you (or your kids) don't have much patience (like the book said - it takes time). There are no hooks, turns or drama of any kind, just a simple, heart-warming family/character-building story, blend like a tofu, feel-good like a tofu. Although somehow you do feel an elevated emotion towards the later part of the book if you go through it, probably because of all that buildups and the nice revealing. Love the illustration too, so wild, I bet kids can relate more.
I think it's a good choice for both active and quiet kids. For the active ones, they'll probably learn a thing or two, parents will need to guide them patiently, like what the grandma did to Lin. And for the quiet ones, they might find like-minded role models in the book and be assured of their unique thinking style.
Overall, a great read and definitely recommend it! In a fast-moving society that values instant satisfaction through cheap entertainment or consumerism like never before (sorry, started sounding like a Charlie Brown, lol..), Tofu Takes Time will take you through a soul-searching journey and nourish your kid's heart and mind, and that of yours as well.
December 2, 2021
Tofu Takes Time is about tofu and so much more. Protagonist Lin has a hard time waiting when her grandma NaiNai decides to make tofu instead of buying it. With each page turn, we see why tofu takes time. Step by step, with Lin’s help, NaiNai transforms a bag of soybeans into the tender, silky food that Lin loves. The process takes all day. We learn that making tofu requires much more than its simple ingredients of soybeans, water, and lemon juice. Soil, rain, and sunshine help grow the beans. NaiNai uses a cloth, a wooden box, and a stone to mold and shape the tofu curds. And then there are the surprise ingredients: Books! NaiNai and Lin read together as they wait for their tofu to finish taking its time. All of these elements are enhanced beautifully by Julie Jarema's illustrations, which include some fun surprises. One image of Lin hanging from a parachute caught me by surprise and made me laugh out loud.
Tofu may not be familiar to every child, so the book can provide a food and cultural introduction to many kids. Family food traditions aside, most kids will relate to making food, and every kid knows the problem of waiting for something they want sooner than later. The book helps reinforce how good things are worth waiting for. One other part of the book that resonates with me (a grandma who bakes with my littles) is the heart-filled relationship we observe between a grandparent and a child. After reading this book, might a child ask an elder about their own food and cooking traditions? I hope so!
I reviewed an advance copy of this book, which I highly recommend.
Tofu may not be familiar to every child, so the book can provide a food and cultural introduction to many kids. Family food traditions aside, most kids will relate to making food, and every kid knows the problem of waiting for something they want sooner than later. The book helps reinforce how good things are worth waiting for. One other part of the book that resonates with me (a grandma who bakes with my littles) is the heart-filled relationship we observe between a grandparent and a child. After reading this book, might a child ask an elder about their own food and cooking traditions? I hope so!
I reviewed an advance copy of this book, which I highly recommend.
December 12, 2021
A sweet book which combines cooking, kids and culture! Readers will enjoy this multi-generational tale which explores the magic of and patience in making Tofu! Told from the perspective of a Chinese-American child spending time with her NaiNai, the reader experiences the sights, sounds and texture of this nourishing food (eaten in China for over 2000 years). It's fun and imaginative and supports the the mindset that good things take time and patience and are worth waiting for -- wonderful sentiments to apply in many areas of life! My World Playground Reviews
December 12, 2021
Thank you, Helen, for bringing us such a wonderful Chinese-culture immersed children story! I even haven’t thought about the interesting and thorough concepts behind this simple story. It made me think more about the deep culture and relationship in family. A colorful and positive story!
December 5, 2021
Five Stars for this Delicious Story of Connection
Helen Wu’s story of unconditional love and connection pairs perfectly with Illustrator Julie Jarema's sweet art to make this an engaging conversation between adult and child. Lin, a young child learns the art of making tofu with her grandmother with a side order of patience. The process is revealed step by step along with a clever, deep dive into the source of each ingredient and material.
The spare text has a musicality to it that will have readers begging to read it again and inspired to explore something new in the kitchen. This book is equal parts: Beautiful, Inspiring and Educational with a delicious family ending.
Helen Wu’s story of unconditional love and connection pairs perfectly with Illustrator Julie Jarema's sweet art to make this an engaging conversation between adult and child. Lin, a young child learns the art of making tofu with her grandmother with a side order of patience. The process is revealed step by step along with a clever, deep dive into the source of each ingredient and material.
The spare text has a musicality to it that will have readers begging to read it again and inspired to explore something new in the kitchen. This book is equal parts: Beautiful, Inspiring and Educational with a delicious family ending.
December 6, 2021
Tofu Takes Time provides a glimpse into the process of making tofu for kids age 3-5. I always appreciate when a book shows the reality of making a product that kids may have never thought about beyond its place in the grocery store. The story features the tender passing of tradition from an elder to a grandchild. With the tradition and the love embedded in the process, these experiences, whether in real life or stories, are special for kids.
December 16, 2021
As one of my most talented alumni, Helen is an extremely imaginative creator. Not surprisingly, she can write such a wonderful story with Eastern philosophy and wisdom. I have seen some of her other works and they are all very amazing. I wish I could read such excellent works when I was a kid. It is certainly helpful for the growth of children.
December 6, 2021
This is delightful. I loved the art, and the story was adorable. The repetition and sound words would make this fun for very young people while also engaging their readers aloud.
December 2, 2021
As a Chinese American, Tofu was always a staple dish at our family dinner table. This story grasped my interest right away. Helen Wu skillfully shows the love between a girl with her grandparent, the process of tofu making, and also touches the soybean growing process. A lot of sounding words make it a great choice for reading out loud. A fun and meaningful diverse family story. Highly recommended.
December 2, 2021
Super sweet, super cute story about a little girl learning that sometimes things that are quality take a bit of time... and that quality time with someone you love is worth it!
Calming text by Helen H. Wu beautifully accompanied by approachable and friendly illustrations by Julie Jarema.
Calming text by Helen H. Wu beautifully accompanied by approachable and friendly illustrations by Julie Jarema.
December 26, 2021
Since the birth of my son I’ve read a lot of Children’s books. Of course most of the readings are done while I try to put a sleepy kid to bed, although as an adult I do also enjoy the simple stories, colorful illustrations and silly jokes. But I have never had the interest to read any of them when I am by myself, until I came across this one. The story is simple, no drama or surprises, but yet magical that it would keep you reading, just like eating a piece of tofu, one bite after another in a smooth silky texture. The most amazing part is not the story itself , but the culture immersed in this story, elaborated by the cute, peaceful yet wild illustrations - Lin’s hairstyle (I used to have the same when I was a kid), the wooden box, the scene about family dinner… All of those strike me as childhood memories that I cherish at the bottom of my heart.
Most importantly, it emphasizes a lifetime philosophy that “good things take time.” After reading this book, my son says to me the other day while we were building Lego together : “mommy, good things take time, right?” Yes, he got the point! That’s what a successful story book does to its little readers, to teach them about life, simple life.
Most importantly, it emphasizes a lifetime philosophy that “good things take time.” After reading this book, my son says to me the other day while we were building Lego together : “mommy, good things take time, right?” Yes, he got the point! That’s what a successful story book does to its little readers, to teach them about life, simple life.
December 18, 2021
"I like the lesson that good things take time. I miss Laolao (my mother)." from my 7yo son who loves Tofu very much. lol.
Personally, I enjoy very much the slow flow feeling of how the story being told. It reminds me of my childhood time with my grandma who I lost earlier this year. Those sweet and slow time stays, her love for me stays, and my love for her stays.
I also love very much that the story puts in Chinese culture and philosophy and blends them so smoothly: In Chinese culture, we do believe the wisdom is embedded in the most ordinary things; Food is also very important in our culture: Food is love. It's when the family get together and share and talk; we admire the principles of being patient and no rush.
I find myself feeling more peaceful after reading the story to my boys. The story has no dramas, no magic, but simple and heart warming.
Personally, I enjoy very much the slow flow feeling of how the story being told. It reminds me of my childhood time with my grandma who I lost earlier this year. Those sweet and slow time stays, her love for me stays, and my love for her stays.
I also love very much that the story puts in Chinese culture and philosophy and blends them so smoothly: In Chinese culture, we do believe the wisdom is embedded in the most ordinary things; Food is also very important in our culture: Food is love. It's when the family get together and share and talk; we admire the principles of being patient and no rush.
I find myself feeling more peaceful after reading the story to my boys. The story has no dramas, no magic, but simple and heart warming.
December 13, 2021
Good things take time. Especially when making yummy tofu! In our hurry-up world, it’s endearing to come upon a children’s book that demonstrates the rewards of patience—along with the gift of spending time with a grandparent learning new things. In Tofu Takes Time, NaiNai and her granddaughter spend a day preparing homemade tofu. There are a lot of steps, including a glimpse at where it all begins with soil and sun. Not a single step can (or should!) be hurried. By the end we have learned the art of making tofu, but also the art of patience. Children will love the fun onomatopoeia throughout, “Plink, plank, plunk” and “Drip, drop, plop”, to name just a couple. The playful storytelling by Helen Wu and lively art by Julie Jarema makes the perfect match.
December 14, 2021
I am so glad I got the chance to read this book. It is fulfilled with love and good memories with family. It reminds my childhood time with my grandparents preparing food and waiting for my working parents. It also reflects my daughter’s good time with her grandparents. Me and my daughter read the book together and both of us enjoyed it. We have a little conversation after reading this book: all about family love. The patient needed for tofu is not only for this one but also for many things in our life including the patience in parenting. Besides the good emotion moments, I like the book full of details about tofu making, that is very educating. And there are some specific word explained with illustration makes this book also good for bigger kids read by themselves while they can learn the words.
April 4, 2022
"Tofu Takes Time is a nice story and it's educational because it lets your child to know that one needs to be patient. The drawing is easy for kids to copy and learn from, and it's very good!" These are the comments from my kid as a first grader for other parents. The story is illustrated vividly with simple easy-to-understand words and phrases, and pictures of the gentle tender color tones. I like the way the book blends the concepts/moral of patience and the Chinese tradition of making tofu in an artistic manner. It helps you to appreciate the art of making Chinese food as represented by the making of tofu, and also gives you a taste of Chinese philosophy with the ingredients of Chinese family culture and traditions.
December 12, 2021
Told in first person a Grandmother (NaiNai) and grandaughter spend time together in the kitchen making a special family recipe. I love that NaiNai takes the time to explain where the ingredients and processes come from. For example, soybeans need water from rain and the river to grow, cloth from thread and fiber is used to strain the tofu, and heat and metal from the sun and earth to cook it. In the end, they share their feast with Mom and Dad. This book is a beautiful "dance" of ingredients, love, and tradition. The end matter includes a fascinating look at the history of tofu and a moving note from the author.
April 17, 2022
An excellent book about the process of making tofu...but more importantly, the wonderful time spent between a grandma and a child, bonding over food that is core to their Asian heritage and culture. I loved the part where the child asks 'why can't we just buy tofu from the supermarket' and her grandma says that homemade is the best! Such an important life lesson for children to slow down and take in the step-by-step journey of food. I loved the part where the ingredients dance together! Beautiful illustrations and a remarkable, easy-to-read-aloud story that would resonate with even a young reader!
April 18, 2022
I love stories about food and family and TOFU TAKES TIME is not only that, but also about patience and the mindset that good things take time. In this sweet intergenerational story, Lin and her grandma make tofu from scratch. As they spend time together in the kitchen, little Lin learns that tofu takes time because it involves far more than she ever could imagine. Wu’s lovely text is sprinkled with repetitions and onomatopoeia, and accompanied by Jarema’s warm and inviting illustrations. The backmatter has a history of tofu along with a touching author's note. This is a wonderful read-aloud and a great addition to any child’s library!
May 12, 2022
The lilting pace of the story made me feel like I was right there making tofu with Lin and her grandmother, NaiNai. Sounds hop down the pages and make the kitchen setting come alive. For example, when onions are added to the hot pan, the added words are FRIZZLE, SIZZLE, HISS. Fresh, soft illustrations add even more to this beautiful book. In particular, I love the bright spread where the whole family gathers around the table to enjoy the homemade tofu together. Interesting back matter consists of the history of tofu and an author’s note. I learned a lot about tofu and I’m looking forward to sharing this book with the little ones in my life!
May 16, 2022
Tofu Takes Time is a lovely story about patience, tradition, & interconnectedness. Lin and NaiNai work together to carefully make tofu by hand, and many lessons are learned along the way. I love that this book is as sweet as it is informative and thought provoking! What goes into making a meal? Whose hands have helped create the tools we use? How has nature provided the ingredients we get to enjoy? This sweet story highlights the joy that can be found in waiting, the way everything we interact with is connected, and the pride we all feel when we do something that takes time... "Good things take time!"
December 12, 2021
Tofu Takes Time sends me back to my childhood and those moments spent making soymilk, baozi, jiaozi, and zongzi with my Chinese mom. The sound-filled story captures the wonder and impatience of witnessing ingredients take shape as food. Each stage of the tofu-making process is connected to an appreciation of the components—seeds, water, cloth, heat, weight, and shape—which I thought was marvelous. Because "tofu takes time," this book is an ode to patience and delayed gratification, ending with a family meal served with pride. A wonderful addition to any child's library!
March 13, 2022
I was able to read an electronic review copy of this special book. It always amazes me all that can be conveyed in the sparse wording of a well-written picture book! Tofu Takes Time shares a warm intergenerational relationship between a small girl and her grandmother, NaiNai as they make homemade tofu together. It's sensory--heightening awareness of all the Earth gives us as we follow the time consuming process. Delightful sound words are included too, such as "Bubble Bobble Popple!" and "Frizzle Sizzle Hiss!" And I'm always looking for Age Positive portrayals of older adults like this title. NaiNai passes on tradition while also gently urging patience and attention to detail.
April 4, 2022
TOFU TAKES TIME is a gorgeous picture book about family, traditions, making tofu from scratch, and learning patience. I love food-based books, so reading this was a pleasure. Imaginative language and lovely family scenes fill the pages of TOFU TAKES TIME. Delicious illustrations of what I imagine a child would do as she impatiently waits to eat a favorite yummy food perfectly enhance the interactive word play. I enjoyed seeing the scenes switch back and forth between the process of making tofu to what resources are used in the making of tofu. Beautiful picture book!
December 12, 2021
Food and family just go together.
And grandparents sharing family food traditions with little ones is the theme of this sweet book. As
Lin and her grandma make tofu from scratch, Lin loses her patience. Grandma guides her through each step, all the while sharing with little Lin that tofu takes time because it involves far more than she ever could imagine.
Wu's sweet story is the perfect read aloud for all food loving families.
A must have for any at home, library or school bookshelf!
And grandparents sharing family food traditions with little ones is the theme of this sweet book. As
Lin and her grandma make tofu from scratch, Lin loses her patience. Grandma guides her through each step, all the while sharing with little Lin that tofu takes time because it involves far more than she ever could imagine.
Wu's sweet story is the perfect read aloud for all food loving families.
A must have for any at home, library or school bookshelf!
December 13, 2021
A young girl struggles to find patience as she makes tofu with her NaiNai. Step by step she wonders how much longer it will take as she helps and learns all that goes into their delicious meal. A sweet story of family, tradition, and an important reminder that the journey is often as meaningful as the result (if not more!). I love generational stories, especially ones that highlight the simple special moments together - after all those are the moments we cherish most.
December 28, 2021
I have read so many of Helen's books to my two Children. This book really grabs my attention at first sight since Tofu has been one of my favorite food since my childhood. It brought me a lot of old memories that our neighbor mom always make Tofu from scratch and she sells them in the local market. My NaiNai always cook the most delicious Tofu from spring to winter. The book is full of fun to read.
It is not only a book that tells a simply but fun process to make Tofu but also a book that teaches Children the great value of patience and love of family.
It is not only a book that tells a simply but fun process to make Tofu but also a book that teaches Children the great value of patience and love of family.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 133 reviews