In Before I Was Born, Tja Ling illustrates the story of her family’s journey from China to the Netherlands, between the 1930s and 1970s, in 14 interconnected pencil drawings. Out of respect and admiration for the way her (grand)-parents built a life for themselves with all the challenges they have had to face, migrating without any formal education or knowledge of the local language. These drawings are a chronicle of pride, strength and respect. A narrative of a child discovering why her parents are the way they are, why they did what they did and how, ultimately, their experiences were destined to also shape her, even before she was born.

The unique binding method ensures that all drawings are connected without the interruption of a page border. When fully opened, the book measures 4.75m in length. Due to the leporello binding, the book can be browsed in 2 directions. There are 2 ‘sides’ to the book, just as there are 2 sides to every story.

Softcover, 24 pages, illustrated black & white, 17 x 26 cm, Dutch/English, Netherlands, 2020.

*COVID-19 Notice: Order processing is slower than usual at this time due to safety and logistical issues surrounding the pandemic. In addition, mail carriers have informed us that shipping times are not guaranteed, and in some cases have been significantly delayed. Unfortunately these delays are out of our control. Thank you in advance for your patience. 

YOU CAN VISIT OUR TEMPORARY SHOP-INSIDE-A-SHOP AT ECKHAUS LATTA STORE IN CHINATOWN LOS ANGELES THROUGH JANUARY 31ST 2025!  AT 980 N BROADWAY, CHINATOWN LA 90012

*DURING THIS TIME YOU CAN CHOOSE "PICKUP" AT CHECKOUT IF YOU PREFER TO PICK UP YOUR ORDER IN THE SHOP.  PLEASE ALLOW UP TO A WEEK FOR YOUR ITEMS TO BE READY FOR PICKUP,  YOU WILL RECEIVE A CONFIRMATION NOTE WHEN IT IS READY :) 

We really appreciate you shopping with us.  Below are our general policies.  We do our best to make our customers happy, so if you have a concern please feel free to contact us :)

Shipping

• All shipping time frames are not guaranteed—after we hand your package to the mail service or shipping company, we are unable to control unforeseen delays on their end.
• We ship orders out Mon-Fri, often same day if possible—but please allow 1-8 business days for processing. Most packages are sent via US Postal Service with delivery confirmation.
• TELFAR BAGS may take even longer than the above time frame during this time, up to 2 weeks to process and send out from our office due to high order volumes.  Priority shipments will be processed first, but ALL orders are shipping slower than usual.
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International Customers

• Customs fees may apply depending on tariff rules in your country. Your country's customs office may in rare cases delay the arrival of your package beyond our control. The customer is responsible for any fees or taxes added by their country's customs office.
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• First Class International (transit time varies ~7-21 days or longer), limited tracking and no insurance
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• Please keep in mind we are not liable for loss or damage in the mail if you select an option without insurance and tracking.  We recommend insuring and tracking whenever possible.
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Because of the tiny nature of our operation, we apologize for our limited return policy.

• No returns on books, music, artwork and objects, accessories, and general merchandise, aside from defective items. Unworn clothing and shoes bought online may be exchanged or returned within 7 days of receipt, unless otherwise specified.
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