New Arrival/New American Books

Written by Sennah Yee
Published by Chen

A day in Chinatown takes an unexpected turn when a bored little girl makes a connection with her grandpa.

May isn’t having fun on her trip through Chinatown with her grandfather. Gong Gong doesn’t speak much English, and May can’t understand Chinese. She’s hungry, and bored with Gong Gong’s errands. Plus, it seems like Gong Gong’s friends are making fun of her! But just when May can’t take any more, Gong Gong surprises her with a gift that reveals he’s been paying more attention than she thought.

With lighthearted, expressive illustrations by Elaine Chen, this charming debut expertly captures life in the cityand shows how small, shared moments of patience and care—and a dumpling or two—can help a child and grandparent bridge the generational and cultural gaps between them.

A glossary at the end of the book features translations of the Chinese words from the story into Chinese characters and English.

Primary ISBN: 9781773214290
Available As: Hardcover, Paperback
Picture Book, Age 04 or older

Community Represented: Chinese/Chinese American

Themes: Canadian Connection, Cultural Empowerment & Joy: Food, Family Relationship: Grandparents, Generation: 1st, Generational Differences: Language, Own Voices/Lived Experience, Welcoming by Community, Welcoming Library Selection

Setting: Chinatown (Unnamed Western City)

Character’s New Arrival/New American Status: 1st Generation

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

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