Ama’s Purse
Written by Charlotte Cheng
Illustrated by Xindi Yan
Published by Rocky Pond Books
A young girl is just where she wants to be, next to her grandma in the back seat of the car as her family heads out on a day trip. She knows there are always delightful surprises inside Ama’s purse. Sure enough, out come all sorts of special items, one after another as the trip continues: a compact that frees a powder-white moon rabbit, tarnished coins that smell of island blooms, buddha beads that chime together like bells and drums. And best of all, a worn book of photos that brings cherished memories circling around them all.
Inspired by the author’s own grandmothers, this heartwarming story bursts with love for home and family.
Primary ISBN: 9780593696774
Publication Date: August 2026
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Picture Book, Age 03 or older
Community Represented: Chinese/Chinese American, Taiwanese/Taiwanese American
Themes: Accolades & Awards, Accolades & Awards: Starred Review, Cultural Empowerment, Cultural Empowerment & Joy: Family, Cultural Empowerment & Joy: Identity, Cultural Empowerment & Joy: Storytelling, Family Relationship: Grandparents, Generation: 2nd, Identity: Multilingual, Own Voices/Lived Experience, Religious Background: Buddhist, Trauma & Healing, Trauma & Healing: Death of Family or Friend
Setting: United States (California)
Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: 2nd Generation
Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience
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