Peh Shing Huei, an acclaimed Singaporean author and journalist, has ventured into children’s literature with his latest book, Pineapple, Let’s Roll!. This engaging picture book draws inspiration from the 2023 Singapore Presidential Election, capturing its values and themes in a format that resonates with young readers. Peh, known for his award-winning works and insightful commentary, brings a fresh perspective to children’s literature with this new release.
Inspiration Behind the Book
Peh was inspired to write Pineapple, Let’s Roll! by the gracious, positive, and respectful campaign of Team Tharman during the 2023 Presidential Election. He wanted to encapsulate these uplifting values in a children’s book, aiming to encourage children to embrace diversity and kindness.
Image from The Nutgraf
The core message of the book reflects the campaign’s theme: “no one is a nobody.” By sharing these values through a colourful story, Peh hopes to instil a sense of respect and empathy in young readers.
The Symbolism of the Pineapple
The protagonist of Pineapple, Let’s Roll! is a pineapple, or “ong lai,” which was the symbol of Team Tharman during the election. Peh chose this fruit for its symbolic connection to the campaign. The pineapple serves as a relatable and meaningful character for children, helping to convey the book’s themes in a way that connects with the election’s positive spirit.
Importance of the Book’s Themes
The book covers essential values such as respect, diversity, empathy, self-esteem, and self-worth. Peh believes these values are crucial for children’s development. As a father of two young children, he strives to impart these lessons through daily interactions and activities. Peh finds that sports are a practical way to teach these values, as children learn to win graciously and lose respectfully. This approach helps them understand that success and failure come from skill, perseverance, and hard work.
Influence of Peh’s Election Experience
Peh’s involvement with Team Tharman influenced the writing of Pineapple, Let’s Roll!. Although elections typically focus on adult issues, Peh saw an opportunity to translate the campaign’s values into a children’s story. This approach allows him to share the principles of respect and kindness with a younger audience, making complex concepts more accessible.
Key Takeaways from the Book
Through Pineapple, Let’s Roll!, Peh Shing Huei aims to offer both entertainment and important life lessons. He hopes that children and their parents will enjoy the story while learning to be proud of themselves and kind to others, especially those who are less fortunate. Peh’s goal is for the book to leave a positive impact on young readers, reinforcing the values of self-worth and empathy.
Comparing to Previous Works
Compared to Peh’s earlier children’s books, such as Dream Island and Panjang, Pineapple, Let’s Roll! is distinct in its approach. While the previous books focus on Singaporean personalities, this latest work is a fictional story inspired by the 2023 Presidential Election. Peh believes that Pineapple, Let’s Roll! is more child-friendly and relatable, as evidenced by the positive reactions from children, including his own sons.
Future Projects
Peh Shing Huei is excited to promote Pineapple, Let’s Roll! in schools, aiming to share the book with a wider audience. This is Peh’s third children’s book, and like his previous works, it features themes related to government figures and the civil service. Peh has also written children’s versions of autobiographies for notable figures such as Goh Chok Tong and Philip Yeo.
For those interested, here are links to Peh’s previous children’s books and their adult counterparts:
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ESM Goh Chok Tong:
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Philip Yeo:
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Through Pineapple, Let’s Roll!, Peh Shing Huei offers a unique and thoughtful approach to children’s literature, blending democratic values with engaging storytelling. The book introduces young readers to important principles of respect, empathy, and self-worth, making complex ideas both accessible and enjoyable.
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