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PAPER WORDS

This film deals with some topics serious enough that it would have to be recommended for older kids, even though the main character, Mei, is in Kindergarten. Mei doesn't speak English. Her teacher thinks she has a serious problem because she doesn't even respond when the other Chinese girl try to talk to her. She is unaware that this other girl does not speak the same dialect as Mei. The kids laugh at her and she is totally withdrawn. Having memories of her teacher in China, who would beat a child who misbehaved or was incorrect, she is too afraid to even try. Eventually, Mei learns some neat origami tricks, shares them with her friends and shows everyone that there is more than one way to communicate. The animation is a little odd, with stiff bodies and swaying clothes. Although my 8-year-old did not understand this film, I think it is an important message for older kids that addresses communication and acceptance of others. Not available for online screening.

Animated short about a young girl named Mei who uses her imagination and dreams to keep herself entertained in a world where few understand her. Not available for online screening.