Book 21 | Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother by Amy Chua

I first “heard” of this book when I saw this issue of Time. I actually dismissed the thought of reading the book because I thought that I wouldn’t be able to relate to the story as I am nowhere near being a parent. But, I changed my mind when I read about Amy Chua again, this time when she made it to Time’s 100 this 2011.

This book was pretty controversial over the internet and it all started with this article. A lot of “Westeners” were appalled by Amy Chua’s parenting style—threatening to burn Sophia’s stuffed toys, calling Sophia “garbage”, rejecting personalized birthday cards, among other things.

Before you side with the “Westerners” after reading the article, I suggest you read the book first.

Growing up, my mother may have imposed a “Chinese mother” style on me. I remember I was to memorize everything in preparation for the periodical exams. I also remember asking for a study break, but my mother wouldn’t allow me, until I was able to answer all her questions.

Somewhat similar to Sophia’s success in Carnegie Hall, I was accelerated (please don’t make a big deal out of this, I do not regard myself as an intelligent person) and I made it as an Academic Excellence Awardee replacing one of the consistent awardees.

However, my mother became a “Western parent” after my second brother was born. Not that it’s a bad thing. I am quite proud on how I turned out as a person.

Contrary to the uproar and dismay of the “Westerners”, I actually found the book funny and moving. I learned that, an A- is really an Asian F, the Chinese (or the Asians, for that matter) have a high regard when it comes to families, and most importantly, I learned that discipline is one of the keys to success.

I have decided. I am going to be a Chinese mother.