Charming families with her book, What Ants Do on Fiery Days, Senior Minister of State Sun Xueling shares a message of unity and kindness for the upcoming National Day.
By Felicia Chua
Most Singaporeans would know Ms Sun Xueling as Senior Minister of State for National Development and Transport, as well as Member of Parliament for the Punggol GRC, but did you know she’s also a published author? A mother of two children, she conceptualised the children’s picture book series, What Ants Do, to explore pressing issues that children face today.
Amid her busy schedule, Sun took some time off her ministerial duties and graced POPULAR Waterway Point for a special storytelling event with young readers and accompanying parents on 26 July.
With her gentle demeanour, lilting voice, and expressive storytelling, Sun captivated her audience with her 4th book in the series, What Ants Do on Fiery Days.
From the virtue of lending a helping hand to the young and old to the importance of teamwork and unity, Sun highlighted that many key messages of the book are particularly relevant to Singapore’s nation-building efforts.
Concluding the story with a beautiful illustration of the map of Singapore, Sun says, “As we celebrate the upcoming SG60 National Day, may each and every one of us contribute to making Singapore a home for all.”
After the storytelling session, children flocked to Sun for plenty of hugs and hellos. Titles from her What Ants Do series flew off the shelves as parents and children alike secured their copies and joined the line to get their books signed, as well as to get a chance to snap a picture with Sun herself during the book-signing.
With a jovial smile, Sun took the time to get to know each child’s name, sign their books, hear them out, and speak to them, making every encounter a heartfelt one.
POPULAR Bookstore is honoured to hold space for such meaningful book events. For more information on upcoming events, stay connected with us on our social media and website.
