Lunar New Year falls on Tuesday, February 5 this year, so to celebrate, we’re doing a Five Finds post all about Chinese New Year, and in particular five picture books that are all about this beloved celebration. While there are plenty of Chinese New Year books available, I wanted to find books that showcase both the traditional aspects of the holiday, and more modern interpretations, and that are ideally created by Chinese or Chinese American creators. Now, I’m using the term “Chinese New Year” here because all of the books I’ve chosen for this list focus on Chinese traditions and celebrations. However, it’s important to remember that China isn’t the only country to celebrate Lunar New Year – several other countries follow a lunar calendar, at least traditionally, including Korea and Vietnam, and each have their own traditions and celebrations.
Ruby’s Chinese New Year – Vickie Lee, Joey Chou
As Ruby heads to her grandmother’s house to deliver a special new year’s card, she runs into the 12 animals of the zodiac, who each try to help her on her mission.
12 Lucky Animals – Vickie Lee, Joey Chou
This bilingual board book introduces children to the 12 animals of the lunar calendar. It includes English and Chinese names for each animal, as well as a pronunciation guide for the Chinese characters and a brief description of the traditional characteristics assigned to each animal. In case you’re wondering, I’m a rat!
A New Year’s Reunion – Yu Li-Qiong, Zhu Cheng-Liang
One of the most beloved aspects of Chinese New Year is the coming together of family from far and wide across the country or even the world. MaoMao’s daddy is coming home for the new year after being away for work for quite some time, and she’s both excited and nervous to see him again. While their reunion is a bit bumpy at first, eventually the love between them proves stronger than time or distance.
The Runaway Wok – Ying Chang Compestine, Sebastia Serra
This colourful fairy tale follows a poor boy whose magical wok saves the poor family’s new year’s celebration, blending together elements of several different fairy tales and fables into a delicious new story.
Bringing in the New Year – Grace Lin
Follow along with a Chinese American family as they prepare the bring in the new year!
What are some of your favourite Chinese New Year picture books?
PoPo’s Lucky Chinese New Year, by Virginia Loh Hagan
Oooh, going to search for it right now! I’m always looking to build our seasonal collection!