In honor of AANHPI (Asian American and Native Hawaiian Pacific Islander) Heritage month in May, we’re sharing a list of new Asian and Asian American children’s books that have come out in 2026 or will be publishing later this year. So far we’ve seen a wonderful collection of brilliant new stories from various AANHPI authors and illustrators, many featuring Asian characters and cultural experiences that reflect the diversity of the Asian diaspora. Also included in this list are a few standout Asian picture books from 2024 and 2025. These picture books by AANHPI authors and illustrators are great for reading all year long, not just May!
Cover images and synopses are provided courtesy of publishers. For forthcoming books, the planned date of publication for each book is listed, but please check the publisher’s website to confirm actual publication date.
Click here for a list of 50+ Asian and Asian American picture books published in 2021.
Click here for a list of 50+ Asian and Asian American picture books published in 2022.
Click here for a list of 50+ Asian and Asian American picture books published in 2023.
Click here for a list of 25+ Asian American picture book biographies.
Click here for a list of 14 new picture books about Lunar New Year, Seollal and Tết published in 2022 and 2023.
Without further ado…
A gorgeously written picture book about how wonderful it can be to return home, the natural beauty of the Philippines, and the concept of bayanihan.
A trip home reminds us of who we are.
Mateo and his dad live lonely, disconnected lives in the city. Every night at dinner, they look at each other, but they don't really see each other.
When they arrive in the Philippines for a family reunion, Mateo sees something in his dad’s eyes that he’s never seen before—adventure. Mateo and his dad embark on an epic bicycle trip to his father's childhood home, and along the way, they catch fish in a turquoise river, pick coconuts from a tall tree, and ride through one glorious rice field after another.
While Mateo learns more about this side of his father that he never knew, he also learns about bayanihan—people in the community coming together to help someone in need. When the trip comes to an end, it's difficult to say goodbye, but not only do Mateo and his dad bring home a stronger relationship as father and son, they also carry bayanihan back to their life in the city and strengthen the ties in their community.
Riding Through Rice Fields was written by Michelle Sterling, illustrated by Bianca Austria and published by Viking Books for Young Readers.
The latest entry in the award-winning Child’s Introduction series is an inspirational and essential look at the impact and influence that AAPI peoples have made to the culture of the United States. The book is packed with profiles of dozens of AAPI trailblazers from from all walks of life, including political activist Grace Lee Boggs, Vice President Kamala Harris, actor Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson, and dozens of others who have made contributions to music, food, sciences, technology, and more. Kids will learn key terms like "Asian American" and "Pacific Islander," how to pronounce common Asian names, and the discrimination members of the community have faced (and continue to face). They will be introduced to a wide variety of traditions, from Diwali to Lunar New Year and signature dishes, like poi and pho, all giving greater visibility to Asian Americans for young learners.
Featuring charming illustrations and a lively design, as well as a pull-out poster, A Child's Introduction to Asian American and Pacific Islander History is much-needed addition every home library and classroom.
A Child’s Introduction to Asian American and Pacific Islander History was written by Naomi Hirahara, illustrated by Sarah Demonteverde and published by Workman Kids.
In this charming author-illustrator debut, a Korean American girl harvests a perfectly ripe persimmon that she can’t wait to share with Grandma.
When Joo Hong harvests a beautiful persimmon from her mom’s garden, she can’t wait to give it to her Grandma who is visiting from far away. However, the days leading up to her arrival feel like forever—and the persimmon is looking less and less perfect as time passes by. What can Joo Hong do to make sure it’s perfectly ripe—and not mushy and wrinkly—for Grandma’s visit?
A tender story about three generations of Korean women and one perfect persimmon, this debut from author-illustrator Hannah Chung shows that even when things don’t go as planned, something even better may be in store.
The Most Perfect Persimmon was written and illustrated by Hannah Chung and published by Astra Young Readers.
The whole family is gathering to celebrate baby cousin’s 1st birthday. They will do the doljabi! Dasom’s mommy will assemble a microphone, a ball, money, yarn, a paintbrush, and other things. Dasom will pick something, and that will decide her future. If she picks a ball, she will be an athlete. If she picks a paintbrush, she will be an artist.
Yoomi is worried. What if Dasom picks a paintbrush and doesn’t want to be an artist? Grandma assures Yoomi that Dasom can become whatever she wants–but maybe she will be a creative person, just like an artist.
But Baby Dasom’s choice surprises everybody—and reminds us that friends and family are what’s important!
Baby Cousin’s Big Day was written and illustrated by Aram Kim and published by Holiday House.
Poetic and heartwarming, Geisel Honor–winning and #1 New York Times bestselling creator Niña Mata’s first authored picture book stars a young Filipina on her first day of school as she discovers the true and layered meaning of “new.”
In the big city, everything feels new.
School is new. The people are new. And the glares and stares you get for being different are new.
But new can also mean new beginnings . . .
A child's-eye view of the common immigrant experience of adjusting to an unfamiliar place, Mata’s picture book debut is a delightfully illustrated masterpiece that will resonate with any child who embarks on a new adventure.
New was written and illustrated by Niña Mata and published by HarperCollins.
This joyful exploration of immigration and nontraditional beauty pays tribute to the unique identity formed by a girl’s Japanese roots and Hawaiian upbringing. Eyes That Kiss in the Corners meets Your Name Is a Song.
From the shores of Japan to the coast of Hawai‘i, old customs are honored, new traditions blossom, and an exuberant narrator defies narrow beauty standards to embrace the skin she’s in and her life on the island of Kaua‘i. Triumphant text and radiant artwork encourage readers to challenge expectations and celebrate how identity and experience find their perfect expression in each of us.
Made for More was written by Chloe Ito Ward, illustrated by Gael Abary and published by Allida.
J. P. Takahashi and HifuMiyo deliver a moving story about two cousins who have eagerly awaited their big mixed-family reunion at the cherry blossom festival. But when nerves strike on the day, they help each other learn more about their family tree, and together they watch new bonds blossom.
Spring has finally come.
Sai has been waiting all year for the trees' green buds to turn pink. For the cherry blossoms to finally burst open. For her big family reunion at the sakura festival.
Relatives from far and wide are gathering at last, but there are some family members she recognizes only from video screens and phone calls. Among the crowd, Sai seems to shrink down. . . .
Until she meets her cousin Avi. It’s an instant click. And together, they dream up a special way to dive deep into their family history—and honor the blooming of new connections.
Waiting for Hanami is a celebration of merging cultural traditions that perfectly reflects the cousin's Japanese American and African American extended family. An ideal next read for multicultural families everywhere!
Waiting for Hanami was written by J.P. Takahashi, illustrated by HifuMiyo and published by HarperCollins.
Celebrate the Mid-Autumn Festival with this sweet story of food and family!
In this story designed to engage early readers, charming characters combine with simple text, lively illustrations, and laugh-out-loud humor to help boost kids' confidence and create lifelong readers!
Jade and Crystal love the Mid-Autumn Festival because it means it’s time to make a tasty treat—mooncakes! Crystal's favorite part of the delicious dessert made of lotus seed paste is the yummy salted egg yolk at the center, meant to represent the moon. Join the sisters as they gather with their family for a memorable meal together!
Complete with fun facts about the holiday in the back of the book, young readers will want to revisit this story again and again.
Mooncakes Mean Family was written and illustrated by Benson Shum and published by Penguin Workshop.
A CALDECOTT HONOR BOOK!
A vibrant historical picture book about Tokyo's bicycle food deliverers, or demae, who balanced towering trays of steaming hot noodles on their shoulders while navigating crowded city streets.
When the deliverymen set off in the morning, the children wait for the flicker of pedal and wheel. It's the demae-- delivery men-- setting off to deliver steaming trays of noodles to hungry customers all over the city. They are acrobats: whizzing past other bicycles, soaring around curves, avoiding the black smoke of motorcycles. When the children see them, they want to be them. And so they practice with bowls of wobbling water stacked on trays. The day passes, and, finally, exhausted, the demae return home, to their families, and, yes, to steaming bowls of noodles.
This beautifully crafted, visually exciting story by a powerhouse author and illustrator team is sure to be adored by food lovers, young and old.
Noodles on a Bicycle was written by Kyo Maclear, illustrated by Gracey Zhang and published by Random House Studio.
When Mina invites friends over, she is embarrassed by the Korean tradition of removing shoes before entering a home until she understands the meaning of the custom.
Mina’s mother is a seamstress who works from home and always keeps the cupboard full of snacks. Her friends like to gather at her house, but Mina hesitates to ask them to remove their shoes before entering. Mina loves most of the Korean traditions that she celebrates with her mother, but this one involves her friends. Why do they have to be different?
When her mother gently reminds her that traditions connect you to your ancestors and to your past, Mina gathers her friends to explain that she lives in a no-shoes house. To her surprise, Mina finds out that her friends have different customs that they follow at their homes. They are happy to honor Mina’s culture but how will they remember?
A trip to the laundry with her mother to deliver newly mended clothes, gives Mina a great idea. Now she knows just what to do.
From the author of the highly acclaimed The Paper Kingdom and Rosa’s Song comes a new story based on the author’s own experience growing up and learning about the importance of family traditions.
Shoes Off, Please was written by Helena Ku Rhee, illustrated by Myo Yim and published by Random House Studio.
Bestselling mother-son duo Surishtha Sehgal and Kabir Sehgal take readers on a bedtime journey to the Himalayan Mountains in this luminous picture book exploring the captivating sights as sunset turns to night.
Good night, Himalayas!
The sun begins to set
over the mountain crest.
Let’s go explore some sights
before it’s time to rest…
From the highest snowcapped peaks to the lowest shimmering lakes and all the amazing places in between, come explore the wondrous sights of the Himalayan Mountains in Asia. Whether it’s a boat ride or bird-watching, riding on bikes or on yaks, there are mountains of fun to be had! And when the day of fun is done, wrap up in a cozy pashmina and settle in to sleep and dream of all the day’s adventures.
Himalayan Nights was written by Kabir Sehgal and Surishtha Sehgal, illustrated by Kamala Nair and published by Beach Lane Books.
From award-winning author, Grace Lin, comes another installment of the irresistible early reader series, Ling & Ting, as the iconic twins celebrate Lunar New Year!
Ling and Ting are twins. They are Chinese and American. They celebrate the new year two times. Now they are preparing for Lunar New Year. They want a lucky year. What happens when Ting makes a mistake? Can their year still be lucky?
Ling & Ting’s Lunar New Year: Two Times Lucky was written and illustrated by Grace Lin and published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.
A beautiful and uplifting story about courage and friendship, against the background of the Lunar New Year.
Logan is VERY excited about the big lantern festival tonight—and he’s made a little dragon lantern to take with him!
But when it turns out that the little dragon is afraid of the dark, Logan will need to muster all of his OWN courage to get them to the festival. Will Logan and his dragon be brave enough to reach the lights and fireworks of the Lunar New Year celebrations?
Logan's Lantern: A Heartwarming and Magical Lunar New Year Adventure was written by Lucy Tandon Copp, illustrated by Ya-Ling Huang and published by Bloomsbury Children’s Books.
Based on the viral, record-breaking, and award-winning Giphy sensation, this latest loving and heartfelt magical adventure stars a boy and his dog who learn that there is nothing warmer than a hug from a friend.
Ai and his friends are excited to play in the snow! It might be chilly, but they know they have Grandpa's warm café waiting for them when they return. So when Aiko finds a big blue dinosaur shivering in the cold, they know they need to help him, even if they're scared. It's time for another Ai and Aiko adventure!
Back at the café, the friends do everything they can think of to warm the dinosaur up. They give him hot chocolate, a hat and mittens, and every cozy thing they have. But the dinosaur keeps shivering and shivering! It's only when Ai comes face-to-face with his fear that he realizes just what the dinosaur really needs.
In this sweet and cozy winter story, a hug is the warmest thing of all.
Ai & Aiko and the Dinosaur Hug was written and illustrated by Peter Draw and published by Philomel Books.
When Momo's ball falls into the sea, a mysterious ocean creature invites him to play. The two begin a game of hide-and-seek, during which Momo finds a school of fish in the middle of class, a family of seahorses sleeping, a band of Trumpetfish playing their tune... but will he ever find his new friend?
Inspired by Avani Dwivedi's childhood in India, this playful story celebrates curiosity and is rich with lush, colorful illustrations and simple text that's perfect for beginning readers.
Momo Sees the Sea was written and illustrated by Avani Dwivedi and published by Random House Books for Young Readers
Ren and his family are preparing for the joyous New Year celebrations—cooking a feast and getting their home spick and span. When Ren accidentally ruins the dragon costume his mother was going to wear in the New Year parade, he turns to his neighbors for help. As they lend their assistance, Ren also learns about Lunar New Year traditions from around the world. Soon they are all celebrating and feasting together in this community-centered story from chef and food writer Lara Lee and richly illustrated by Natelle Quek.
Welcoming the Lunar New Year: Festivals of the World was written by Lara Lee, illustrated by Natelle Quek and published by Candlewick Press.
It’s early in the pandemic in India. The trains have been shut down to prevent contagion. For Jyoti, as for millions of migrant workers, getting home with her injured father will require enormous ingenuity and gumption. Follow the real-life story of a girl who—desperate for her father to survive—rode almost a thousand miles across India with him on the back of a hot-pink twenty-dollar bicycle. Her amazing story, relayed for a young audience by reporter Suhasini Raj and author Garen Thomas, is a portrait of an unassuming girl who made an extraordinary decision and became celebrated across India, breaking entrenched stereotypes of caste and gender. This story of love, determination, problem-solving, and a pink bicycle will speak to young people everywhere.
The Bicycle Girl: Jyoti Kumari's Amazing Journey Across India was written by Garen Thomas and Suhasini Raj, illustrated by Maithili Joshi and published by Candlewick Press.
Ning has always heard tales of the night spirits that used to terrorize the little village where he lives. So, each night, he helps his parents light bright orange lanterns to frighten them away. Secretly, he wonders if they’re really as bad as everyone says – but is much too shy to ask anyone. But when Ning finds himself in the forest by night, he meets a creature who introduces him to the spirits’ secret world and he discovers that all is not as it seems... A beautiful and magical story about confronting fears, confidence and a little boy who finds his voice.
Ning and the Night Spirits was written and illustrated by Adriena Fong and published by Flying Eye Books.
“What is Jeong?” a little girl asks her grandma, and so begins a lyrical journey of discovery, kindness, and understanding in this ode to Korean American language and culture.
How can one tiny word mean so much?
Luna loves spending time with her little brother Joey and their halmeoni after school—they share yummy treats, play at the park, and have a lot of fun speaking to each other in Korean and English. When Halmeoni notices Luna help Joey put on his shoes and says that she has “jeong,” they realize that some words aren’t quite translatable between their two languages.
As she, Halmeoni, and Joey go through the day, Luna uncovers the meaning of a small word that carries a lot of weight. Over time, she learns more about her family, herself, and the gorgeous culture that connects them.
Jeong Is Jeong was written by Jessica Yoon, illustrated by Michelle Lee and published by Make Me a World.
Celebrate springtime and the beauty of life with this hopeful and inspiring picture book.
“We wait for so long, and when they finally come, the petals fall so quickly. Mono no aware, ne?”
“What does that mean, mono no aware?”
Little Yuna can’t wait for her great-grandmother’s cherry tree to bloom. She and her hībāchan spend each day outside, watching the tree’s flowers unfurl. But once the tree blooms, the moment is so brief before it loses its petals again—this is what her hībāchan calls mono no aware. It isn’t until her great grandmother—and the petals she loves—are gone that Yuna finally understands what the phrase really means: an awareness of something's impermanence.
Critically acclaimed illustrator Yas Imamura of Love in the Library has created stunning artwork to accompany this profound text. Readers will love pouring over these pages again and again!
When Cherry Blossoms Fall was written by Katrina Goldsaito, illustrated by Yas Imamura and published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers.
A sweet and funny Korean PRINCESS AND THE PEA retelling, written by critically-acclaimed Korean American author Tina Cho.
In the mountains of Joseon, Jeongsoon has a heart as gentle as jade, but she might just be the clumsiest girl in the kingdom. She wants to be a princess, so she enters the grand princess challenge where she must complete the Manners Test, the Wisdom Test, and finally—the Sleep Test. Upon laying down on dozens of mattresses, Jeongsoon hears the squeaking of a hungry mouse (who close readers will have spotted hiding in previous spreads) and helps it to the palace kitchens for a midnight snack. Throughout each examination, Jeongsoon is far from flawless but in staying true to herself, wins the favor of the queen and the competition itself. Backmatter includes information about the real-life Korean princesses of the Joseon period, glossary, and author's note.
The Princess and the Grain of Rice was written by Tina Cho, illustrated by Honee Jang and published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux Books for Young Readers.
Samina travels from North America all the way to Bangladesh to attend her first traditional Bangladeshi wedding. Anticipation for the big day builds as she meets family she’s only ever seen on video calls and participates in various wedding traditions—like the family gift exchanges, the holud ceremony, and henna painting. A sidebar on each spread provides additional context for the depicted custom.
Sensory writing and colorful, detailed illustrations invite readers to be a guest alongside Samina in this informational picture book about the tastes and traditions of a Bangladeshi marriage.
Samina Goes to a Wedding: Celebrations from a Bangladeshi Marriage was written and illustrated by Farida Zaman and published by Owlkids.
When a storm sweeps Emi’s beloved stuffed fox away from their mountain home, he ends up tattered and alone on a distant shore. A kind old man finds the fox and gives it to his granddaughter, Kiko. As she recovers from an injury of her own, Kiko mends the fox lovingly with golden thread.
As the seasons pass, Kiko cares for the fox as her own. But after discovering his origins, she sets out, with her grandfather’s help, to bring the fox back to its original home. Once together, Emi and Kiko piece together the fox’s journey and find delight in their newly forged connections.
Golden Threads is inspired by the Japanese art form of kintsugi, or golden joinery, where broken pottery is repaired with resin painted gold. Kintsugi values repairing, rather than replacing, believing that the cracks give the broken item its story. This book is also a warm celebration of wabi-sabi, the Japanese idea that there is beauty in things that may be incomplete or imperfect.
Golden Threads was written by Suzanne Del Rizzo, illustrated by Miki Sato and published by Owlkids.
AN INSTANT NEW YORK TIMES BESTSELLER!
From Los Angeles Dodgers all-star Shohei Ohtani comes a fast-paced and heartwarming fictional story about his real-life dog Decoy’s first pitch on Opening Day of the baseball season.
Decoy can’t wait to throw the first pitch on Opening Day of the new baseball season! The stadium has hot dogs, the biggest backyard he’s ever seen, and thousands of his best human friends. It’s going to be the best day ever, but -- oh, no! -- Decoy forgot his lucky baseball at home! Can he get his ball and make it back to the stadium before it’s too late?
Shohei Ohtani is the biggest name in baseball and a proud sponsor of animal rescue organizations. Shohei and Decoy hope to use the publication of DECOY SAVES OPENING DAY to support the work these amazing nonprofits do helping dogs find their forever homes. While their fictional counterparts are saving opening day, Shohei and Decoy are working to help real-life animals in need.
Step up to the plate with LA Dodger, all-star, and MLB MVP Shohei Ohtani in his adorable debut story about his even more adorable pup, Decoy.
Decoy Saves Opening Day was written by Shohei Ohtani and Michael Blank, illustrated by Fanny Liem and published by HarperCollins.
A little girl and her family come together to honor her late grandfather on Qing Ming or Tomb-Sweeping Day in this heartwarming story about celebrating ancestors.
Join a young girl and her family as they prepare for Qing Ming: cooking favorite dishes and gathering everything they need to visit Yeh Yeh’s grave. The girl is worried because her memories of Yeh Yeh are fading and wonders if he is forgetting her too.
As the family sweeps and clears debris from Yeh Yeh’s grave, burn incense and joss paper, the little girl has an offering of her own. She shares about her adventures and accomplishments from the past year, burning a drawing of a bicycle, so that Yeh Yeh can ride like they used to at the park. With every story and offering, she feels closer to her grandfather. When the family gathers for a picnic at the grave, indulging in Yeh Yeh’s favorite foods—it is a tender moment of togetherness.
A heartwarming story about honoring and celebrating those who are gone.
With You in Spirit: A Qing Ming Story was written by Jenny Liao, illustrated by Lenny Wen and published by Knopf Books for Young Readers.
Three sisters must outsmart a hungry tiger in this fresh retelling of a beloved Korean folktale.
When Eomma goes to market she has only one rule for her three daughters, don’t open the door until her return. There are creatures that roam the nearby mountains.
But as the hours pass, the sisters grow anxious. Surely, Eomma will be home soon. And when there’s a knock at the door, the girls jump to let Eomma in. Except, it is not their mother at the door.
Debut Nancy So Miller updates this centuries-old story with her gorgeous cutpaper art, for which she carefully constructed and photographed each scene. From the fiery orange of the tiger to the soothing shades of a lilac sky, this is a visually lush retelling. Perfect for fans of the original as well as fairy tales like Little Red Riding Hood.
Back matter includes a bibliography and more information about the original story and Korean history and culture.
Sun, Moon And Star: A Folktale from Korea was written and illustrated by Nancy So Miller and published by Holiday House.
A girl guides her dad on his route delivering Chinese take-out food in this touching picture book — written by an APALA award winner and illustrated by a Caldecott Honor winner -- that celebrates the unique bond between immigrant parents and their children.
Every night, a girl must help her dad, whose English is not as good as hers, make deliveries for their small family restaurant. Sitting next to him in the car, she studies a map and gives him directions in Cantonese. She helps him get to the places he needs to go.
She hates doing this, though. Hates carrying grease-stained boxes of Mongolian beef and moo goo gai pan to customers' doors. Hates being different from the kids behind these doors. Why can't her family be normal like everyone else’s?
But when her dad tells her about how he immigrated, all alone as a teenager, to the United States, she comes to better understand him, and appreciate how he has made her American life possible.
Navigating Night was written by Julie Leung, illustrated by Angie Kang and published by Anne Schwartz Books.
As rain falls, Old Monk invites Little Monk to practice calligraphy. “Let’s write the character for rain!” he says. And with each brushstroke, Little Monk’s restless, anxious heart grows quiet.
For the next twenty years, as Little Monk becomes Big Monk, he sits down with his brush every day, meditating on and writing the character for “rain.” Until one day someone comes to the temple asking for help: the city has no water. All grown up now, Big Monk packs his things, hoping to do his part. But will a pile of calligraphy sheets make any difference?
This stunning book is horizontally bound, creating a vertical reading experience inspired by Chinese ink paintings and calligraphy hung on scrolls. With poetic text and watercolor art from Taiwanese author-illustrator Hsu-Kung Liu, Little Monk Writes Rain is an evocative tale of mindfulness, self-expression, and compassion. The simple, resonant story is sure to start conversations about how to find—and share—a sense of calm amid the storms of life. Translated from Chinese by Rachel Wang Yung-Hsin.
Little Monk Writes Rain was written by Hsu-Kung Liu, illustrated by Rachel W, translated by Yung-Hsin and published by Eerdmans Books for Young Readers.
A modern American tall tale woven by a girl and her father about Ah Bing, the Chinese immigrant behind the Pacific Northwest's most delicious cherries.
You've heard of a Bing cherry, but did you know the story of the Chinese American immigrant for whom the dark, luscious cherry is named?
Long ago, Ah Bing was a father who travelled across the sea from China looking for work. It was in Oregon where he met a man who hired him to work in his orchards, where eventually, Bing cultivated the delicious cherries we know of today.
But what was it that made this man and the cherries he made so special? a young girl wonders as she sits together with her father, enjoying cherries from their backyard. Weaving together cultural memory, historical fact, and her own imagination, the young girl imagines a narrative of Ah Bing that is as larger than life and as sweet as his namesake.
With touching text and lush illustrations, Livia Blackburne and Julia Kuo forge an unforgettable Chinese American folktale that has largely been untold. The backmatter includes a letter from the author and illustrator, as well as a recipe!
Bing’s Cherries was written by Livia Blackburne, illustrated by Julia Kuo and published by Knopf Books for Young Readers
A stunning picture book that celebrates the power of movement in storytelling and is perfect for fans of Finding My Dance by Ria Thundercloud and Bunheads by Misty Copeland!
While living in India, Neela danced Kathak--a form of classical Indian dance that uses movement to tell stories--but now that her family has moved, she dances ballet like the other kids in her school. She loves ballet and her new friends, but she missed the feeling of being strong and graceful all at once, the stories that Kathak dances hold, and of course the jingle, jingle that her anklets make as she moves across the stage.
Neela decides to take a chance and sign up to do a Kathak routine at the annual showcase, but it's been a while since she's danced in this style, and she worries that the other kids won't like it. When Amma reminds Neela to stay true to herself, Neela lets the music of the bells guide her.
Music of the Bells was written by Anitha Rao-Robinson, illustrated by Chaaya Prabhat and published by Viking Books for Young Readers.
Why do we love chopsticks? Let us count the ways! Chopsticks can be so many things:
A baton for blending, swirling, whirling . . .
slender fingers, perfect for picking up cheese puffs and navigating natto . . .
a tradition, an offering, a celebration . . .
and so much more than we can imagine.
This meaningful and joy-filled picture book celebrates how chopsticks are used by people all over the world. Learn about how chopsticks are used in different cultures and countries, and join in the celebration of this multifaceted utensil.A CELEBRATION OF CULTURE: While chopsticks originated in Asia, they have since accompanied many Asian families and Asian foods across countries and continents and remain an integral part of daily life in many cultures. This fun and energetic picture book celebrates this versatile utensil and shares how they are used in a range of countries, including Japan, China, Taiwan, Cambodia, and the Philippines.
Chopsticks Are was written by Chloe Ito Ward, illustrated by Lynn Scurfield and published by Chronicle Books.
When her mom has to work far away, a young girl holds on to the memory of her mother’s unwavering love and dreams of their reunion. This heartwarming story delves into the challenges of having a working parent and the courage it takes to be apart from your loved ones. Features a unique jacket and case design!
“We are like snails: brave adventurers. They carry their homes on their backs and in their hearts. And they leave traces of themselves wherever they go.”
A young girl and her mom move often from city to city, always starting over together like adventurous snails. But one day, when her mom gets a job in another city, they are separated for a long time.
While being raised by her loving grandparents, the girl can’t help but miss her mom and yearn for the day they will reunite. But through drawing and remembering her mother’s encouraging words, the girl learns to be brave on her own until they are together again.
With two distinct illustrated covers, one on the jacket and the other on the case, vibrant art, and poignant text, When We Were Snails depicts the love between a child and mother, and the everlasting bond that exists between them, no matter the distance or time apart.
When We Were Snails was written and illustrated by Nan Cao and published by Crown Books for Young Readers.
I thread each arm through my peach sleeves.
Grandpa Jo ties the bright yellow sash around me.
I check to make sure the paper flowers in my hair are on just right.
I am ready for my first Bon dance festiva
It’s a young Japanese-American girl’s first time at the “Festival of Souls,” one of the largest Buddhist festivals. It’s just like her grandfather described: the smell of corndogs, the glow of hanging paper lanterns, the beat of taiko drums. But Grandpa Jo didn’t tell her that everyone else already knew how to dance!
Suddenly, the lanterns feel like spotlights. She wish, wish, wishes she could dance, but she can’t bring herself to try… until Grandpa Jo encourages her to remember the meaning of the Obon Festival—celebrating our family members who have passed on—and to imagine her beloved Grandma Nat dancing along with her. Because she is there, and behind her are her parents, sugar-cane cutters, and behind them are their parents, who came to Hawai’I on ships from Japan.
My body moves to the rhythm of the music.
I am a bon dancer, one in a line of dancing ancestors.
I Am a Bon Dancer was written by Brandi-Ann Uyemura, illustrated by Amy Matsushita-Beal and published by Holiday House.
On a trip to the market, Nanu gets a cup of chai. But before he can take a drink, his granddaughter stops him just in time.
STOP! There's a FLY in that chai!
Thus begins an epic battle between Nanu and the fly: who loves chai more??
This hilarious story will have readers on the edge of their seats and the dynamic illustrations will take them on a journey through a busy market they won't soon forget!
Who will win the chai battle?
Fly in the Chai was written by Zenia Wadhwani, illustrated by Chaaya Prabhat and published by Tundra Books.
In Barbed Wire Between Us, a single poem holds two lives, separated by decades yet bound by the same stretch of barbed wire.
Read forward, a Japanese American girl is uprooted and sent to an incarceration camp during World War II, her world reduced to dust, distance, and longing. Read in reverse, and the poem transforms: now a Latina girl stands in that same place, detained generations later, her story echoing across time.
With language as spare as it is powerful, Mia Wenjen shapes a reverso poem that reveals how history can fold in on itself—how loss, resilience, and hope repeat in new forms. Violeta Encarnación’s evocative artwork deepens the emotional landscape, illuminating both the quiet tenderness and the stark realities of life behind the wire.
Together, they create a book that reads like a mirror held up to the past—and the present.
A luminous and unflinching meditation on memory, injustice, and the fragile promise of belonging, Barbed Wire Between Us lingers long after the final line—asking not only what happened, but what we choose to see, and what we dare to change.
Barbed Wire Between Us was written by Mia Wenjen, illustrated by Violeta Encarnación and published by Red Comet Press.
Perfect for fans of Spirited Away, this humorous picture book tells the fantastical tale of one grumpy old man and the creation of Taiwan's first night market.
Mr. Chow lives for the night, when the moon is a wok full of simmering oil.
Too bad he owns a supermarket and has to wake up very, very early. Mr. Chow hates mornings and so does his store: The shopping carts are sluggish, the front door yawns, and the pomelos roll down the aisle in a sleepy daze.
When disaster strikes, Mr. Chow seeks advice from other workers and the similarly buoyant, anthropomorphic buildings they work in. And soon, he discovers that his store doesn't have to be a morning market...it can be a night market!
Accompanied by spellbinding art from Yu Ting Cheng, debut author Emily Sun Li crafts a whimsical myth about how the very first Taiwanese night market was created.
Mr. Chow’s Night Market was written by Emily Sun Li, illustrated by Yu Ting Cheng and published by Penguin Workshop.
From two-time GRAMMY® Award–winning musician Laufey comes a bewitching picture book about overcoming mistakes and believing in oneself.
Mei Mei is a little bunny with a big dream. She wants to make the world happy with her music! Her first recital at the H'Opera House is approaching, and she's been practicing harder than any bunny ever has. But the butterflies in her stomach flit and flutter.
When Mei Mei plays the wrong note in front of everyone, will she be able to find the melody to make it right?
Mei Mei The Bunny was written by Laufey, illustrated by Lauren O'Hara and published by Penguin Workshop.
A powerful, emotional, and ultimately uplifting picture book about the real-life experience of a Japanese American boy incarcerated with his family during World War II.
Cowritten by Minoru (Min) Tonai, an advocate for Japanese American rights, Unbreakable is based on Tonai’s harrowing real-life experiences and has been welcomed with five starred reviews.
This moving picture book includes extensive back matter: information on the American incarceration camps and the campaign to release Tonai’s father, a timeline, a bibliography, author and illustrator notes, and questions for further discussion perfect for caregivers and educators to further engage young readers.
After the bombing of Pearl Harbor, strength comes in the form of the small, smooth stone Min’s father gives him before being led away by FBI agents. In his absence, Min and his family do their best to keep their produce business afloat and earn enough support to get Min’s father released. But the FBI won't release his father, and soon, Min and his family are forced into an incarceration camp in Colorado.
Imprisoned on the dusty plains and facing both the pain of displacement and the injustice of being incarcerated by his own country, Min must learn to adapt and to find beauty—and strength—where most wouldn’t.
Cowritten by Jolene Gutiérrez, author of Too Much! and Mamiachi & Me, and illustrated by acclaimed illustrator Chris Sasaki, this is an inspiring and powerful picture book. Share it with young readers who are asking questions about justice, belonging, and what it means to be American.
Lying in bed at night, Min thinks about things he’s lost:
his family’s home and business, Puppy, and most of all, Papa.
Min clutches his stone, hoping to see his father again.
Unbreakable: A Japanese American Family in an American Incarceration Camp was written by Minoru Tonai and Jolene Gutiérrez, illustrated by Chris Sasaki and published by Abrams Books for Young Readers.
With the help of her mother, Ambika designs her very own salwar kameez for her cousin’s wedding!
Ambika is visiting her mother’s home country, India, for the first time to attend her cousin’s wedding, and she needs a salwar kameez to wear to the ceremonies. She picks out the fabric in her favorite color and pattern, then chooses the length, sleeve style, and neckline that she likes best. At the wedding, she swirls around in a beautiful salwar kameez that she created—with the help of her mother and a few new friends along the way!
This sweet mother-daughter bonding tale provides a story of agency, anticipation, and reward. It is a sensory experience of the sights, textures, and sounds of the process of dressmaking in Lucknow, India, brought to life by Avneet Sandhu’s vibrant layers of textured illustrations.
A Salwar Kameez for Ambika was written by Arti Pandey, illustrated by Avneet Sandhu and published byOwlkids.
An adorable dog helps his family assemble a new gift after a present for a new baby goes missing in this new warm and funny picture book from the award-winning creator of Drawn Together.
Road trip! There’s a new baby cousin in the family and this boy and his dog, Miles, can’t wait to take a trip to deliver them a shiny new present. There’s only one problem: in all the chaos of packing, the present has gone missing! In a rush to recover it, the boy encourages his family to retrace their steps around the house, but the only things they can find are an old blankie, a favorite stuffie, and his beloved booties. Luckily, Miles has excellent canine smarts and just might be able to sniff out a solution. . .
Told with lively dialogue, playful, detailed illustrations, and a clever ending, here is a story about one family’s discovery of what makes a gift truly special.
Miles Ahead was written by Minh Lê, illustrated by Lynnor Bontigao and published by Knopf Books for Young Readers.
Join a little girl as she discovers the hidden world of her new octopus friend in this stunning wordless picture book by critically acclaimed author-illustrator Guojing.
A little girl goes to the beach with her mother, never expecting the day full of magic and wonder that is ahead of her. When she scoops up a tiny octopus in her small, clear container, and they see each other eye to eye, there’s a spark between them! But a little octopus cannot be happy for long in a container. So the girl sets out to discover what the octopus needs. And that’s when something truly magical happens! Soon, the little girl is on an underwater adventure with her new octopus friend, where she discovers the joy and beauty of the octopus’s world and learns how she can help take care of the ocean in her own way.
The Octopus was written and illustrated by Guojing and published by Two Lions.
Join Kimi as she pirouettes onto the basketball court in this relatable story inspired by author Korey Watari’s experiences and illustrated by her husband, Mike Wu, former Pixar artist and creator of the Ellie series.
Kimi just wants to focus on ballet, but she knows her dad really wants her to join the basketball team. Trying new things makes Kimi feel small, quiet, and uneasy. So her dad makes her a deal: If she gives basketball a try, he might just trade his sneakers for ballet slippers.
Kimi gives it a shot. At first it seems like all she is doing is fumbling, tumbling, and missing baskets. But her dad only encourages her more. Then he shares a story about her grandfather’s famous moves on a Japanese American basketball team and why the sport is so special to their family. It’s just the motivation that Kimi needs.
And what happens when Kimi takes some of her ballet skills over to basketball? Find out in this heartfelt story that’s perfect for dancers and sports lovers alike, or anyone who’s had to try something new.
Kimi the BALLerina was written by Korey Watari, illustrated by Mike Wu and published by Two Lions. Its scheduled publication date is May 1, 2026.
From beloved Japanese author‑illustrator Kaya Doi, this ninth volume in the Chirri & Chirra series is set amid the cherry blossoms of Japan, offering readers a gentle celebration of spring.
Chirri and Chirra ride their trusty bicycles to a giant cherry tree, where they sample cherry‑blossom sweets before venturing inside. There they discover a sakura‑themed beauty parlor, complete with chiffon scarves and sweet perfume.
Their journey continues to a viewing deck, where they sip cherry‑blossom tea and experience the most magical moment of all: petals shaken loose by the wind, drifting down in a soft, pink shower.
Filled with delicious food, animal friends, and the beauty of nature, Chirri & Chirra, Among the Cherry Blossoms captures the quiet wonder of the season. A translator’s note about sakura trees is included.
Chirri & Chirra: Among the Cherry Blossoms was written by Kaya Doi, translated by David Boyd and published by Enchanted Lion Books. Its scheduled publication date is May 5, 2026.
Joanna Ho, New York Times bestselling author of Eyes That Kiss in the Corners, returns with another sweet, funny picture book about summertime outdoor adventures and the unforgettable memories often made along the way.
Mama’s decided it’s time for their next big outdoor adventure, but Oliver’s not so sure.
He's no fan of bazillion-mile, brain-melting car rides, sleeping someplace with bears, bugs, and bats, or the sticky, icky food! Blech!
Mama may be convinced that memories are best made outdoors, but Oliver’s determined to make this adventure his last. But is it all that bad? After hide n’ seek, hiking, and s’mores, Oliver realizes that there just might be fun times and unforgettable moments to treasure after all.
New York Times bestselling author, Joanna Ho, returns with another touching and hilarious story, illustrated by the talented Thaís Mesquita, that highlights nature and family, and reminds us that the best views are the ones we share with those we love.
A Room With a View was written by Joanna Ho, illustrated by Thaís Mesquita and published by HarperCollins. Its scheduled publication date is May 26, 2026.
A young girl is afraid of dogs, and a small dog is afraid of children in this funny, bighearted picture book about overcoming fear to find friendship.
Jia runs from every dog—big, tiny, spotted, or shaggy. Charlie the French bulldog hides from every kid—behind couches, laundry, even grown-ups' legs.
When something far scarier forces these two together, they discover a sweet surprise: a friend who understands.
Jia Has a Dog Problem was written by Stephanie Ellen Sy, illustrated by Isabella Kung and published by Kokila.
An uplifting celebration of familial love and support through the generations.
Caregiving flows through a little girl’s family in so many ways, like a river connecting them all. Her grandfather cares for her by picking her up from school with a snack and a smile, and she cares for him by keeping him company at his doctors’ appointments with a snack and a smile. Her mother helps her grandmother get ready for the day, just as her grandmother once helped her mother. And when the relatives send packages to each other, their caring makes them feel closer. Through occasions big and small, it’s a comfort to know this river of love is ever-present, and her family will always be there for each other.
Jocelyn Chung’s evocative text and Sarah Gonzales’ gorgeous pictures remind us that our family’s love is a gift to be treasured.
The River of Caregiving was written by Jocelyn Chung, illustrated by Sarah Gonzales and published by Nancy Paulsen Books.
Celebrate diversity, math, and the power of storytelling!
A math picture book series for preschoolers and kindergarteners with relatable stories about kids’ everyday experiences.
Luna and her cousin Mina are making sticky-rice dumplings for the Dragon Boat Festival. Hidden inside some of them is a lucky golden egg yolk. Everyone wants a lucky dumpling! Especially Bei-Bei, Luna's youngest cousin. How can Luna and Mina improve little Bei-Bei's chances of picking a lucky dumpling?
A playful exploration of probability, featuring Chinese American characters and a cultural note about the Dragon Boat Festival.
Storytelling Math celebrates children using math in their daily adventures as they play, build, and discover the world around them. Joyful stories and hands-on activities make it easy for kids and their grown-ups to explore everyday math together.
Luna Picks a Lucky Dumpling was written by Natasha Yim, illustrated by Violet Kim and published by Charlesbridge.
Stay tuned and return to this post — it will be updated with Asian picture books being published in the latter half of the year including:
Love, Panda
The Great Pumpkin Pancake Party
Hayao Miyazaki
Ride / Dap Xe
Ama's Purse
Let's All Celebrate
The Magnificent Banyan and the Green Tong Lau
Sister Scribbles
A Hanbok for Hana
Habbi's Treasure
Bompa's Intertidal Adventure
Goodbye, Koi
The Shape of Love
The Longest Banig
Sophie Lee Can Fly!
Tasting Words
Solar Mamas: The Story of Sanjit "Bunker" Roy and the Grandmothers Who Became Solar Engineers
Momma's Christmas Gift
Ghungroos for Gauri
Bathtime for Snow Monkeys
Oto and the Little Yellow Train
Tokki’s Tricks: A Korean Folktale
