Lions, Choy and Red Bricks: The Stories Behind “Very Vancouver”

Date:
November 21, 2026
Location:
Chinese Canadian Museum
Schedule:

2:30 P.M. – Doors

3:00 – 3:25 P.M. Very Vancouver book reading & presentation

3:25 – 3:45 P.M. – Moderated discussion with author Christopher Cheung and illustrator Janice Wu

3:45 – 4:00 P.M. – Audience Q&A

Cost:

This program is complimentary but museum admission is required.

Join award-winning journalist and author Christopher Cheung for a conversation celebrating the launch of Very Vancouver: Uncovering the Soul of a West Coast City.

In Very Vancouver, Cheung journeys through the city’s diverse neighbourhoods to uncover the overlooked stories, communities, and histories that have shaped Vancouver. Through deeply researched and personal narratives, the book reveals a city defined not only by its natural beauty, but by migration, resilience, and the people who have built lives and communities across generations.

Following the presentation, Cheung will be joined in conversation by Janice Wu, the Chinese Canadian Museum’s Education and Public Programs Coordinator, who also illustrated the book’s cover. Together, they will explore the stories behind the book and the many histories that continue to shape Vancouver today.

Order your signed copy of Very Vancouver: Uncovering the Soul of a West Coast City at 1889 Trading Co. now!

Guest Speakers:

Christopher Cheung

Christopher Cheung is the author of Under the White Gaze: Solving the Problem of Race and Representation in Canadian Journalism. He has worked as a reporter at The Tyee, Metro, and the Vancouver Courier and has received two Webster Awards, BC’s top journalism prize. He was born and raised in Vancouver, where he still lives.

Janice Wu

Janice coordinates the Chinese Canadian Museum’s education and public programs. Born and raised in Burnaby, Janice’s background is in visual arts, with a BFA from Emily Carr University. She is also a working artist with a career in illustration that spans over a decade. As a second-generation Canadian-born Chinese, a large majority of her work addresses cultural belonging, family history, and the diasporic experience.

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