Written by Jocelyn Chung; Illustrated by Sarah Gonzales

Using a river as a metaphor for the love and care that flows throughout an extended multi-generational family, a young child explains how acts of kindness and support are not one directional. Familial titles used in the story are Taiwanese in origin. On first reading, the uncertainty of the meaning of those words helps make the story feel universal. The interconnectedness of support from acts of caregiving strengthens the whole family and the care of any lost member will continue to be felt through the lasting impact of past caring (the fruit trees planted by A-gong or Great Auntie’s knitted clothing). The change in flow, speed, or adjustment of course of the caregiving is to be expected, respected, and celebrated.