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“A boy chafes against his protective family in this bilingual tale, presented in both English and traditional Chinese.Fang Xin’s worried parents and grandparents constantly call out “Xiao Xin!”—a phrase that translates both to “Be careful” and the nickname “Little Heart.” …Feeling a burst of independence, he sneaks out of the house. As his terrified caregivers search for him, flashbacks make it clear that their overprotectiveness is rooted in their own trauma. …His fearful caregivers hold themselves back; taking his sister’s hand, Fang Xin returns to his family, bolstered by a new inner strength. A visually striking, sensitive look at a family affected by generational trauma but whose love for one another endures.”

– Kirkus Reviews

Be Careful, Xiao Xin!

Written by Alice Pung
Illustrated by Sher Rill Ng
Published by Crown Books for Young Readers

Xiao Xin believes he is a fearless Red Fire Warrior, but his family is always telling him to be careful—he’s too little to be a warrior! They believe the world is a dangerous place. But they don’t understand what Xiao Xin can be! Can Xiao Xin show his family that he is capable of more than they believe, and inspire his little sister to be brave, too?

Renowned storytellers Alice Pung and Sher Rill Ng bring to life a beautiful and tender story told in both English and Chinese about learning to conquer your own fears—as a child, and as an adult.

Primary ISBN: 9780593812907
Publication Date: November 2024
Available As: Hardcover, eBook
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented:

Themes: , , , , , , , ,

Setting: Australia

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: 1st Generation

Book Creator(s) Connection to the Community Represented: Own Voices/Lived Experience

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Teacher’s Guide & Classroom Resources

Source: HarperCollins