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“A young Chinese girl is tired of being sidelined by her family. …When Jia is invited to take part, sitting on the shoulders of the lead dancers, she helps the performers do the one thing that will bring luck and prosperity to all. …An author’s note explains the significance of the lion dance as well as other Chinese New Year traditions. Celebratory and inspiring, especially for youngsters tired of being told they’re too young to contribute.”
—Kirkus Reviews

The Chinese New Year Helper

Written by Ying Chang Compestine
Illustrated by Ginnie Hsu
Published by Rocky Pond Books

Jia’s family is busy preparing for the Chinese New Year feast at their restaurant in Chinatown, and Jia wants to take part. But each time she tries to help she’s told that she’s too young: too young to be in the kitchen, too young to light the lanterns, too young to carry the plates. And then the feast begins, and something wonderful happens. When Jia is scolded for getting too close to the exciting lion dance, one of the dancers swoops her up and into the costume, and suddenly she’s a part of the performance—a crucial part that saves the show. Never again does her family tell her that she’s too young to help!

Primary ISBN: 9780593534014
Publication Date: December 2024
Available As: Hardcover, Audiobook, eBook
Picture Book, Age 03 or older

Community Represented:

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Setting: United States

Character's Place in the Immigration Journey: Unknown Arrival

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

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