Over 100 Parent-Child Pairs Read Idiom Stories Together: New Book 'Idioms Are More Than Four Characters' Warms Hearts

"A book that not only teaches children idioms but also helps parents rediscover the joy of reading together with their kids!" Educator Chen Yu-Hui's new book, 'Idioms Are More Than Four Characters,' had its launch event on the 19th at the Hsinchu County Cultural Bureau Concert Hall. Over a hundred parents and children sat side by side, flipping pages and reading aloud in unison. Children's voices echoed throughout the hall, adding warmth and familial tenderness to each idiom story.

Reading an idiom with a child also means hearing their innocent, heartfelt thoughts.

The event featured a young authors' exhibition, storytelling through old photographs, author talks, and a mass parent-child reading session. More than just a book launch, the atmosphere resembled a long-overdue family reunion. Children bravely shared their creative works while adults listened quietly and captured moments with photos. Every glance and round of applause became encouragement on their journey of growth.

A heartwarming scene unfolded during the '100 parent-child pairs reading together' segment. Parents sat beside their children, reading each word and sentence aloud. Some children were initially shy, but as they continued reading, their confidence grew. Their tender yet earnest voices drew spontaneous applause from the audience.

Chen Yu-Hui emphasized that idioms are never just four characters to memorize for exams. Behind each idiom lies life experience, emotional understanding, and wisdom about human relationships. She hopes parents, while reading with their children, will not only provide answers but also ask, "How do you feel?" and listen to their inner thoughts.

Chen shared that what children truly remember may not be how many books they've read, but the moments when someone sat beside them, read slowly, and truly listened. 'Idioms Are More Than Four Characters' is her heartfelt letter to both children and parents, aiming to make reading the starting point for deeper connections.

The book launch attracted support from local political, educational, cultural, business, and community leaders. Attendees included Madame Gan Xiu-Mei (wife of the Hsinchu County Magistrate), Legislator Hsu Hsin-Ying, Hsinchu County Councilor Wu Hsu-Chih, Cultural Bureau Director Chu Shu-Min, former President of Taipei University of Education Chuang Chi-Ming, Professor Fang Ming-Chien from the National Concert Hall, vocalist Chen Ming-Geng, and Wind Media Group partner Chen You-Jia, all witnessing the birth of this new book.

Legislator Hsu Hsin-Ying praised Chen's long-term dedication to education, transforming idioms into relatable life stories for children. Councilor Wu Hsu-Chih highlighted that parent-child reading not only strengthens language skills but also preserves dedicated time for families to connect amidst busy lives.

The young authors' exhibition allowed children to express their inner worlds through writing and drawings. Though their works reflected childlike innocence, they were filled with sincere thoughts. Parents stood before the artworks, reading carefully and discovering feelings their children might not otherwise express.

The 'Storytelling Through Old Photos' segment took guests through Chen Yu-Hui's educational journey, showcasing her long-standing commitment to children and reading promotion through a series of images. Time left its mark on the photos, but her educational初心 (original intention) remained unchanged.

Chen Yu-Hui expressed her hope that 'Idioms Are More Than Four Characters' will enter more schools and homes, allowing children to learn culture through idioms and turning every parent-child reading session into a warm memory that lasts for years.

The event was supported by Mr. WISH Hope Tea and Shun Cheng Cake, which provided drinks and snacks to accompany families through the afternoon. Children held their books while sharing treats and laughter, filling the concert hall not only with the scent of books but also with deep human warmth.