Houston, TX, USA – May 1, 2023 – Author Katherine Cheng-Arif has showed an unwavering commitment to fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding among young readers in her book, Jade’s Food for Thought, has proven to be an invaluable resource in teaching children about the importance of diversity, embracing differences, and promoting inclusivity. Through her storytelling, she has successfully sparked conversations that encourage empathy, respect, and unity among children from all walks of life. Her efforts have not only enriched the literary landscape but have also inspired countless young minds to develop a love for reading, broadening their horizons and nurturing their imaginations. Notably, Cheng-Arif has generously donated her books to many elementary schools and libraries, ensuring that children of diverse backgrounds have access to literature that celebrates their unique identities. It is worth highlighting Cheng-Arif’s innovative approach by involving children as valuable consultants throughout the creation of her book. By embracing their insights and making them co-creators of the book, she empowered these young minds, instilling in them a sense of ownership and fostering a profound connection to the story.
When asked by media influencer, Dr. Melissa Caudle, about the reason for writing Jade’s Food for Thought Cheng-Arif says, “My first why is because of my baby sister. As a child, she discussed the lack of books with main characters that looked like her. In her elementary days, there were very few opportunities to talk about culture and celebration differences as people. We talked about why there were not a lot of Asian Authors. Like her, I remembered my parents talking about being a doctor, lawyer, engineer, or government official. She was right. My second why is because when I was in third grade, I had challenges with the food my mother made for me during lunch. All moms love their children and take the time to make them their special lunch. My mother made me sushi big and round and made of seaweed. My classmates thought it was odd, and the seaweed smelled. They took my food and ate their lunch, then spit it out. Let’s say they asked me why my mom was so poor or did not love me, as I did not have a sandwich. I knew my mom loved me, and every day she took the time to make me my lunch. I would hide away and eat my lunch away from the kids. I would devour it, or as I got older, I even ate it on the bus. This experience made me talk less and feel ashamed of my culture. This reaction caused my teacher to think I needed to go to ESL and moved me. So, it brings me to the why, because I want to make a difference for those little kids out there to know being different is to be celebrated and that different foods are the spice of life.”
To celebrate the release of Jade’s Food for Thought, a launch party and book signing event is scheduled for May 20, 2023, in Houston, Texas. (Note: See details below and to attend RSVP with the link provided. The press and the public are invited to attend this fun-packed book signing event.)
ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Katherine Cheng-Arif, a first-generation immigrant, earned a Bachelor’s of Science Degree in Public Policy and Management and Associates degree in Sociology from the University of Southern California in just 3 years at 20. She has been featured as a young entrepreneur on Newsweek and DBA Magazine in 1993. In addition, she has been featured in several news articles and commentaries from Houston Chronicle, WB39, and in the Sports & Entertainment Marketing 4th edition textbook. She also has published an article in High Performance Magazine and the JCI USA Magazine Fall 2009 issue. Her efforts in helping the community can best be seen through her efforts in the Allison flood to the recent Hurricane Harvey when she gathered volunteers to help the victims by bringing goods, clothing, necessities, and furniture. She has fundraised millions of dollars for relief efforts of disasters worldwide. Katherine has served on the Mayor’s Advisory Board of Asian Affairs and Development, the board of the Global Federation of Chinese Business Women in 2003, Interfaith Ministry Youth Victim Program Advisory Committee Member (1999), Junior Achievement volunteer, and Partners in Education with HISD, Alief, & Katy ISD. She is very involved in the Jaycees, also known as Junior Chamber International (JCI). She has held leadership positions at every level, ranging from local to international. Beginning with her presidency of the Houston Asian Junior Chamber, Katherine persevered and lead others to become the 2009 JCI Texas President. In 2010, Katherine was appointed to the United Nations JCI Commissioner for Americas to promote the UN Millennium Development goals, Malaria – Nothing but Nets project, and Global Summit in New York.
As responsible citizens in a globalized world, JCI members take on the challenges around them through local development initiatives. These tailored projects require members to use strategic planning and critical planning to craft creative solutions to problems of their communities. In 2011, Katherine was elected JCI International Vice-President seeking the votes from 120 National Presidents around the world. She was elected in Osaka, Japan during our World Congress and was assigned to New Zealand, Australia, Taiwan, Indonesia, and Singapore. She had an opportunity to travel the world and make a difference in the lives of everyday people.
She was able to raise money for Japan’s Tsunami and the earthquake in New Zealand through JCI Operation Hope. In 2012, she was appointed to JCI World Treasurer, responsible for financial management of a non-profit that generates over 6 million dollars a year. In 2014, Katherine was elected Legal Counsel for JCI, representing over 200 countries. Currently, Katherine is active on several boards of various foundations, championing various causes such as gender equality, education for all, mentoring, and empowering the poor and low-income families.
Katherine is a proud Navy mom, wife to an Army veteran, and a loving mom to her furbaby, Snuggles the cat.
Won several awards including Outstanding Young Texan Award by the Texas Junior Chamber.
CONTACT THE AUTHOR:
Kycabooks@gmail.com
Phone 832-236-5049
Media Contact
Company Name: Absolute Author Press Distribution Services
Contact Person: Katherine Cheng-Arif
Email: Send Email
Phone: 571-358-0250
City: Houston
State: Texas
Country: United States
Website: www.absoluteauthorpublishinghouse.com
