In honor of Asian Pacific American Heritage Month coming up in May, we’re sharing a list of new Asian children’s books by Asian authors, Asian illustrators, Asian American authors and Asian American illustrators that have come out in 2022 or will be publishing later this year. So far we’ve seen a fantastic collection of wonderful new stories from various AAPI authors and illustrators, many featuring Asian characters and cultural experiences that reflect the diversity of the Asian diaspora. These picture books 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 2023.
Click here for a list of 50+ Asian and Asian American picture books published in 2021.
Click here for a list of 25+ Asian American picture book biographies.
Little Ren looks forward to the preparation for and festivities of Lunar New Year, but she is always too little to help make the delicious pineapple cakes that are her favorite. She watches family members rolling out the dough and loves the mouth-watering smell. Watching and waiting, when will Ren be old enough? This charming picture book includes a recipe for pineapple cakes!
A Sweet New Year for Ren was written by Michelle Sterling, illustrated by Dung Ho and published by Paula Wiseman Books. Its scheduled publication date is November 15, 2022, and is available to order here.
Gauri is excited to splash colors on everyone for Holi. But when she doesn't get her favorite color, Gauri gets mad. Will she find a way to overcome her anger and join in the festivities?
Holy Hai! was written by Chitra Soundar, illustrated by Darshika Varma and published by Albert Whitman.
Zhao Di and her friends are excited to go out at night with their paper lanterns and celebrate Chinese New Year. Each holding a unique colorful lantern with a lit candle inside, they admire the breathtaking colors while doing their best to avoid the wind and the sneaky boys in the village. Every night, until the fifteenth day of New Year, Zhao Di and her friends take part in this fun tradition, experiencing the thrill of nighttime in their village. And then—it’s time to smash the lanterns!
In this cheerful book first published in China, readers are invited along with Zhao Di and her friends as they experience all the joy and excitement of this folk Chinese custom. Details about the paper lantern tradition are also included in an author’s note at the end of the book.
Playing with Lanterns was written by Wang Yage, illustrated by Zhu Chengliang and published by Amazon Crossing Kids.
Kylie is nervous about visiting her grandmother—her Amah—who lives SO FAR AWAY. When she and Mama finally go to Taipei, Kylie is shy with Amah. Even though they have spent time together in video chats, those aren’t the same as real life. And in Taiwan, Kylie is at first uncomfortable with the less-familiar language, customs, culture, and food. However, after she is invited by Amah—Lái kàn kàn! Come see!—to play and splash in the hot springs (which aren’t that different from the pools at home), Kylie begins to see this place through her grandmother’s eyes and sees a new side of the things that used to scare her. Soon, Kylie is leading her Amah—Come see! Lái kàn kàn!—back through all her favorite parts of this place and having SO MUCH FUN! And when it is time to go home, the video chats will be extra special until they can visit faraway again.
Amah Faraway was written by Margaret Chiu Greanias, illustrated by Tracy Subisak and published by Bloomsbury Children’s Books.
At a young age, Patsy Takemoto Mink learned that working toward a goal could come with challenges. But she never gave up. As the Japanese proverb says, Fall down seven times, stand up eight. That spirit helped Patsy through life. When she wanted to become a doctor, medical schools refused to admit her because of her gender. So Patsy carved her own path. She went to law school; ran for a seat in the United States Congress; and helped create Title IX, the law that requires federally funded schools to treat boys and girls equally. Although many people tried to knock her down, Patsy always got up again. She was a historic trailblazer who championed equal rights and helped create a better future for all Americans.
Fall Down Seven Times, Stand Up Eight: Patsy Takemoto Mink was written by Jen Bryant, illustrated by Toshiki Nakamura and published by Quill Tree Books.
An adorable picture book from animator Benson Shum about a tiny monster with a big heart trying to follow in his family's footsteps.
All great Kaiju are born with a super power to strike fear in the heart of the city.
But Anzu is different.
Instead of mayhem, he likes May flowers.
Instead of striking fear, he prefers to be sincere.
Can Anzu find a way to make his family proud and stay true to his kind self?
Anzu the Great Kaiju was written and illustrated by Benson Shum and published by Roaring Brook Press.
Claire has been surrounded by the deep blue waves of Hapuna Beach and the magnificent mountains of Hawai’i all her life, but has never, ever seen snow. When her father drives her and her family to the top of the Mauna Kea, she can’t help but to be disappointed…it’s not the winter wonderland she’s always dreamed of. And that’s what she wants, more than anything. But as Claire edges ever closer to the new year, she wonders if maybe—just maybe—she can delight in the special joys of winter in her own way—right there, on her Big Island of Hawaii. Includes backmatter that captures the environmental culture of Hawaii, and will teach children not only about the local flora and fauna, but also the value of being environmentally friendly.
Snow Angel Sand Angel was written by Lois-Ann Yamanaka, illustrated by Ashley Lukashevsky and published by Make Me a World.
What a wonderful day to go to the farmers' market! Mina and Leah, 2 adorable sisters, enjoy all the sights, sounds, smells, touch, and tastes of what their local farmers' market has to offer. Explore all 5 senses with this adorable family while they check out the delicious sustainable organic produce, freshly baked goods, colorful flowers and so much more!
Let's Go to the Farmers' Market was written by Katrina Liu and illustrated by Heru Setiawan. It’s available in three editions: Bilingual Traditional Chinese, Bilingual Simplified Chinese and English.
Buko is an interactive children’s book that highlights the Filipino culture through food! The book discovers the many different ways to use the Buko…the Filipino coconut.
Included are:
– Buko Book
– Buko reusable stickers to use inside the book
– Erasable marker to use for activities in the book
Buko was written by Jennifer Estacio and illustrated by Ethel Martinez.
It’s the kind of night when you just can’t fall asleep.
You feel as though everyone in the world is asleep but you.
“Oh, I see a light!
Is somebody awake?”
Brimming with wonder and enchantment, award-winning author-illustrator Sang-Keun Kim’s Star Fishing imagines who else might be awake on a sleepless night—taking young readers and listeners on an adventure through the stars and into sweet dreams.
Star Fishing was written and illustrated by Sang-Keun Kim and published by Abrams Books for Young Readers.
When the Sakura Bloom by Nariso Togo sheds light on the cultural significance of cherry blossom season in Japan, and an insight into the unique mindset of its people. Through subtle text and gentle imagery readers will see the importance of slowing down to appreciate the moment. That comfort, not despair, can be found in the inevitable cycles of the seasons. How change can usher in opportunities and rejuvenation.
Moreover, When the Sakura Bloom is an understated illustration of the importance of celebrating the fleeting, delicate beauty of nature and the metaphor this represents for life itself.
When the Sakura Bloom was written and illustrated by Narisa Togo and published by Berbay Publishing.
To fall in love is already a gift. But to fall in love in a place like Minidoka, a place built to make people feel like they weren’t human—that was miraculous.
After the bombing of Pearl Harbor, Tama is sent to live in a War Relocation Center in the desert. All Japanese Americans from the West Coast—elderly people, children, babies—now live in prison camps like Minidoka. To be who she is has become a crime, it seems, and Tama doesn’t know when or if she will ever leave. Trying not to think of the life she once had, she works in the camp’s tiny library, taking solace in pages bursting with color and light, love and fairness. And she isn’t the only one. George waits each morning by the door, his arms piled with books checked out the day before. As their friendship grows, Tama wonders: Can anyone possibly read so much? Is she the reason George comes to the library every day? Maggie Tokuda-Hall’s beautifully illustrated, elegant love story features a photo of the real Tama and George—the author’s grandparents—along with an afterword and other back matter for readers to learn more about a time in our history that continues to resonate.
Love in the Library was written by Maggie Tokuda-Hall, illustrated by Yas Imamura and published by Candlewick Press.
New York Times bestselling author Joanna Ho delivers a poignant follow up to Eyes that Kiss in the Corners. In Eyes that Speak to the Stars, a young Asian boy learns to love his eyes by realizing they are like his father’s, grandfather’s, and younger brother’s. A young boy comes to recognize his own power and ability to change the future. When a friend at school creates a hurtful drawing, the boy turns to his family for comfort. He realizes that his eyes rise to the skies and speak to the stars, shine like sunlit rays, and glimpse trails of light from those who came before—in fact, his eyes are like his father’s, his grandfather’s, and his little brother’s, and they are visionary. Eyes that Speak to the Stars is a stunning companion to the acclaimed Eyes that Kiss in the Corners. Joanna Ho’s elegant, lyrical words and Dung Ho’s extraordinary celestial illustrations inspire readers to recognize their own power and strength from within and redefine what it means to be truly you.
Eyes that Speak to the Stars was written by Joanna Ho, illustrated by Dung Ho and published by HarperCollins.
What do you see when you look in the mirror, Mei? Do you see beauty? We see eyes that point toward the sun, that give us the warmth and joy of a thousand rays when you smile. We see hair as inky black and smooth as a peaceful night sky. We see skin brushed with gold. This joyful and lyrical picture book from New York Times-bestselling author Eva Chen is a moving ode to the immigrant experience, as well as a manifesto of self-love for Chinese American children.
I Am Golden was written by Eva Chen, illustrated by Sophie Diao and published by Feiwel & Friends.
Bhago, Bhago as fast as you can! Follow the leaping laddoo (luh-DOO), an Indian dessert, as it flees from the hands of its maker and eludes children, a tea seller, a groom on an elephant, and more. Can anyone end this crazy chase? Featuring vibrant illustrations and sprinkled with Hindi words, this fun read-aloud also includes a laddoo recipe.
The Leaping Laddoo was written by Harshita Jerath, illustrated by Kamala M. Nair and published by Albert Whitman.
Reminiscent of Jamilah Thompkins-Bigelow’s Mommy’s Khimar, this beautifully woven tale about the bonds of love, culture, and memory follows a young girl learning about her family history through her grandmother’s katha chest.
Asiya loves to visit Nanu’s house where she can rummage through Nanu’s katha chest filled with quilts. There are stories in each of the quilts that her Nanu has collected through the years, all about the bold and brave women in Asiya’s family. Among all of the games and exciting things at Nanu’s house, Asiya thinks these hidden histories are the grandest treasure.
The Katha Chest was written by Radhiah Chowdhury, illustrated by Lavanya Naidu and published by Salaam Reads.
A girl explores her love of dancing and her cultural identity in a lively picture book with echoes of the real-life collaboration between Bharatanatyam icon Rukmini Devi Arundale and ballerina Anna Pavlova.
Paro comes from a dancing family. At home, she dances Bharatanatyam with her mom, and now she’s excited to learn ballet. But what if she can’t dance like the other kids in her class? Ballerinas move like fairies, while Bharatanatyam dancers seem like queens. Paro can’t be both...can she? Anu Chouhan’s vibrant, energetic illustrations emphasize themes of creative flexibility and navigating the intersections of different cultural identities.
Bharatanatyam in Ballet Shoes was written by Mahak Jain, illustrated by Anu Chouhan and published by Annick Press.
When Jyoti visits her grandmother halfway around the world, she is overwhelmed by the differences between India and home. At first she feels lonely and out of place, but soon, despite a language barrier, she and Sita Pati are able to understand each other. They form a bond—looking at books together, making designs with colored sand, shopping at the market, playing games, eating chapatis, and sipping warm milk with saffron to bring sweet dreams. When it’s time to part, Jyoti doesn’t want to leave, but then she remembers that in Tamil, people don’t say goodbye, they say “I’ll go and come back.” Sure enough, the two reunite the next summer when Pati visits Jyoti in America, and it’s Jyoti’s turn to make her grandmother feel welcome. Can they create some special memories that will last until the next time they see each other?
I’ll Go and Come Back was written by Rajani LaRocca, illustrated by Sara Palacios and published by Candlewick Press.
It's Dat's first day of school in a new country! Dat and his Mah made a long journey to get here, and Dat doesn't know the language. To Dat, everything everybody says – from the school bus driver to his new classmates – sounds like gibberish. How is Dat going to make new friends if they can't understand each other?
Luckily there's a friendly girl in Dat's class who knows that there are other ways to communicate, besides just talking. Could she help make sense of the gibberish?
Gibberish was written and illustrated by Young Vo and published by Levine Querido.
A lush and lyrical debut picture book about the marvels—big and small—of childhood.
Will you climb a hill with me?
Dive into a lake with me?
Reach the starry sky with me,
and watch the clouds parade?
Love can feel as vast as a sky full of breathtaking clouds or as gentle as a sparkling, starlit night. It can scale the tallest mountains and reach the deepest depths of the sea. Standing side-by-side with someone you love, the unimaginable can seem achievable. But not every magical moment is extraordinary. Simply being together is the best journey of all. Let's Do Everything and Nothing is an ode to the ephemeral joys of growing up.
Let’s Do Everything and Nothing was written and illustrated by Julia Kuo and published by Roaring Brook Press. Its scheduled publication date is March 22, 2022.
A little girl grows up to be an accomplished artist in this sumptuously illustrated book about the small things that lead to a rich and fulfilling life.
All you need
Is a planet to live on,
A sun to give you light,
And warmth. . .
In All You Need, poet Howard Schwartz’s graceful, deceptively simple text describes a handful of things anyone needs to live a rich and fulfilling life, made all the more potent by the illustrations of debut picture book artist Jasu Hu, who uses her talents to create a rich and powerful narrative describing her own journey, creative and otherwise, from a childhood in China to her arrival to study art in New York. Ultimately, she creates her own book, this book, a gift to her distant parents.
All You Need was written by Howard Schwartz, illustrated by Jasu Hu and published by Neal Porter Books. Its scheduled publication date is April 5, 2022.
Lin makes tofu with her grandma and discovers that patience brings a whole universe together in a simple dish made by a modern Chinese American family.
Homemade tofu is good, and good things take time.
CLICK CLACK WHIRRRR . . . Lin and her grandma, NaiNai, are making tofu from scratch! When NaiNai goes through each step, from blending soybeans with water to molding curd into shape, Lin gradually becomes impatient. But she soon discovers that making tofu not only takes time, but also takes the whole universe! It takes the seed from soil and sunshine, the cloth from thread and fiber, weight and space, books of words and pictures. And most of all, it takes spending lovely time with her beloved grandmother.
In this charming tale by Helen H. Wu,, readers will marvel at how patience brings a whole universe together in a simple dish made by a modern Chinese American family.
Tofu Takes Time was written by Helen H. Wu, illustrated by Julie Jarema and published by Beaming Books. Its scheduled publication date is April 19, 2022.
This gentle, contemplative picture book about family origins invites us to ponder the meaning of home. A young boy loves listening to his mother describe the place where she grew up, a world of tall mountains and friends splashing together in the river. Mommy’s stories have let the boy visit her homeland in his thoughts and dreams, and now he’s old enough to travel with her to see it for himself. But when mother and son arrive, the town is not as he imagined. Skyscrapers block the mountains, and crowds hurry past. The boy feels like an outsider—until they visit the river where his mother used to play, and he sees that the spirit and happiness of those days remain. Sensitively pitched to a child’s-eye view, this vivid story honors the immigrant experience and the timeless bond between parent and child, past and present.
Mommy’s Hometown was written by Hope Lim, illustrated by Jaime Kim and published by Candlewick Press. Its scheduled publication date is April 12, 2022.
A stunning picture book debut showcasing the love between grandparents and grandchildren, the challenges of memory loss, and the joy that sweet reminders of a faraway home can bring, from award-winning, bestselling author Thanhhà Lại.
This sweet and emotional picture book will resonate with readers who love A Big Mooncake for Little Star, Ladder to the Moon, and Thank You, Omu!
An’s grandmother Bà sometimes gets trapped in her cloudy memories. An and her grandfather, Ông, come up with a plan to bring her back to a happy moment: They grow gấc fruits so they can make xôi gấc, Bà’s favorite dish from her wedding in Vietnam many years ago.
An and Ông work together in the garden, nurturing the gấc seeds. They must be patient and wait for the seeds to grow, flower, and turn into fruit. When the xôi gấc is finally ready, An is hopeful that her grandmother will remember her wedding wish with Ông: hundred years of happiness.
Striking and vivid illustrations bring this tender story of a loving, intergenerational Vietnamese family to life.
Hundred Years of Happiness was written by Thanhhà Lai, illustrated by Nguyen Quang and published by HarperCollins. Its scheduled publication date is April 5, 2022.
A charming debut picture book inspired by the Korean tradition of sharing food and set in a soft, fresh world of adorable animals.
Coco the chipmunk is known for asking, "Have you eaten?" and sharing sweet potatoes. The other animals find Coco's question odd, but one day she shares her food with some animals who could use a friend. When Coco falls ill, her new friends come to care for her in the same way she taught them—by sharing food.
Inspired by a Korean greeting, this heartwarming story offers a fresh take on friendship and kindness and captures one of the many ways we show love.
Have You Eaten?: A Story of Food, Friendship, and Kindness was written and illustrated by Su Youn Lee and published by Feiwel and Friends. Its scheduled publication date is April 19, 2022.
This cheerful story about an adorable, curious, and kind child will have your kids saying "thank you"--and maybe even giving those peas a chance! With colorful illustrations that capture a child's daily snacks and mealtimes, Thank You, Mama will delight parents and kids alike.
Thank You, Mama was written by Linda Meeker, illustrated by Sandra Eide and published by Thomas Nelson. Its scheduled publication date is April 19, 2022.
Amara is a young Filipino-American girl who loves when her big extended family comes over to visit. As their parents prepare a lunch filled with different traditional Filipino dishes, Amara and her pinsans (cousins) want to put on a performance but can't seem to agree on how to entertain Lolo (grandfather) and Lola (grandmother). Should they sing a song or do cartwheels? Choreograph a dance or perform magic tricks? My Pinsans & Me: Amara's Talent Show is a story about family, teamwork and celebrating each other's differences.
My Pinsans & Me was written by Monica Canlas Tuy and Eric Tuy, illustrated by Joseph Canlas and published by BookBaby. Its scheduled publication date is April 28, 2022.
An affirmative, empowering story about embracing your identity and finding your voice, inspired in part by debut author Korey Watari’s experiences growing up Asian American, and illustrated by her husband, Mike Wu, Pixar artist and creator of the Ellie series.
I am beautiful.
I belong here.
What I do matters.
I am able to shine.
Each night Keiko whispers to her crane, “I wish to change the world.” She is kind, and she has big dreams. But at times she feels invisible; she knows some people misjudge her. Keiko is also loved, so she perseveres and stands strong. Over time, her confidence grows, she shares more of herself, and she helps lift up others—and eventually lead them. She understands that no matter what, she can shine.
I Am Able to Shine was written by Korey Watari, illustrated by Mike Wu and published by Two Lions. Its scheduled publication date is May 1, 2022.
The winsome Sato continues his magical adventures, traversing snowy landscapes and crossing a sea made of tea. Yet, no matter where he ventures, his participation in the natural world, and the magic that he finds within the ordinary, infuse each new day with possibility.
In this third installment of the whimsical series originally published in Japan, the titular Sato continues his adventures, exploring both expansive landscapes—snowy fields, forests, oceans made of tea—and tiny microcosms of worlds, found in unlikely places—like within a freshly-baked pie! In Sato's reality, which is in many ways similar to our own, seemingly commonplace occurrences are portals to new and fantastical experiences, and every object possesses an intrinsic magic and aliveness. Like all of the installments in the trilogy, this collection of vignettes reminds us to to look closely at what is small and often overlooked, and to open ourselves to wonder.
Sato the Rabbit, A Seat of Tea was written and illustrated by Yuki Ainoya, translated by Michael Blaskowsky and published by Enchanted Lion. Its scheduled publication date is May 3, 2022.
Blue and Josh are working very hard in the kitchen to bake a yummy treat from the Philippines: a bibingka cake! But who does Blue want to share the cake with? Play Blue’s Clues to find out in this storybook about sharing starring all your favorite characters from Nickelodeon’s Blue’s Clues & You! Kids ages 3 to 7 who love Blue and baking will enjoy this full-color picture book with over 30 stickers plus a bibingka recipe to bake your own cake at home.
Baking with Blue! was written by Cynthia Cherish Malaran, illustrated by Dave Aikins and published by Random House Books for Young Readers. Its scheduled publication date is May 3, 2022.
When Patsy Mink won her seat the House of Representatives as a Democrat from Hawaii, she became the first woman of color and the first Asian American woman elected to Congress. A co-author of the Title XI amendment of the Higher Education Act, she was a champion of rights for women, children, immigrants, and minorities throughout her twenty-four years in Congress. She helped paved the way for many other women to succeed.
In this chapter book biography by bestselling and award-winning author Tae Keller, readers learn about the amazing life of Patsy Mink--and how she persisted.
Complete with an introduction from Chelsea Clinton, black-and-white illustrations throughout, and a list of ways that readers can follow in Patsy Mink's footsteps and make a difference!
She Persisted: Patsy Mink was written by Tae Keller. The She Persisted chapter book series is based on the bestselling picture book series by Chelsea Clinton and Alexandra Boiger. Its scheduled publication date is May 3, 2022.
Meet Punky Aloha—a spunky Polynesian girl who uses the power of saying aloha to make friends and experience new, exciting, and unexpected adventures in this debut picture book by author-illustrator Shar Tuiasoa. Punky loves to do a lot of things—except meeting new friends. She doesn’t feel brave enough. So when her grandmother asks her to go out and grab butter for her famous banana bread, Punky hesitates. But with the help of her grandmother’s magical sunglasses and a lot of aloha in her heart, Punky sets off on a BIG adventure for the very first time. Will she be able to get the butter for grandma?
Punky Aloha was written and illustrated by Shar Tuiasoa and published by HarperCollins. Its scheduled publication date is May 3, 2022.
From the creators of the award-winning picture book Juna's Jar, comes a new magical tale where Juna embarks on a journey to help her biggest hero--her Appa!
Juna enjoys helping her father in their dry-cleaning shop on Saturdays. It's their special time together. One day Juna sees a customer yelling at Appa about a lost jacket. Juna has never seen her father look so worried and becomes determined to help. She sets off on a magical journey in search of the jacket, and along the way meets remarkable animals that show her the different ways that fathers care for their young. Juna and Appa is a tender ode to fathers and to the many families working behind shop counters.
Juna and Appa was written by Jane Park, illustrated by Felicia Hoshino and published by Lee & Low Books. Its scheduled publication date is May 3, 2022.
From NYT bestselling author Kelly Yang comes a gorgeously illustrated picture book about Asian American changemakers doing everything they dreamed of and inspiring all of us to reach for new heights!
From creating beautiful music like Yo-Yo Ma to flying to outer space like Franklin Chang-Díaz; from standing up to injustice like Fred Korematsu to becoming the first Asian American, Black and female vice president of the United States like Kamala Harris, this book illuminates the power of Asian Americans all over the country, in all sorts of fields.
Each spread is illustrated by a different renowned Asian American or Asian artist. Alongside the poetic main text, Yes We Will includes one-line biographies of the person or historical moment featured on the page, with extended biographies at the end. Readers of different ages and needs can use the book in different ways, from classroom discussions to bedtime readalouds and more.
Yes We Will answers the question, can we accomplish whatever we dream? With love, courage, determination, and lots of imagination, we can—and we will!
Yes We Will: Asian Americans Who Shaped This Country was written by Kelly Yang and features the work of illustrators Nabi H. Ali, Fahmida Azim, Marcos Chin, Sally Deng, Shreya Gupta, Julia Kuo, Julie Kwon, Nhung Lê, Kitkat Pecson, Dow Phumiruk, Sujean Rim, Dan Santat, Yuewei Shi, Yuko Shimizu and Yao Xiao. Published by Dial Books, its scheduled publication date is May 3, 2022.
Meet a child with superhero-like abilities…and the parents who are racing to keep up with her in this sweetly funny picturebook about the blur of childhood, from the award-winning creators of Drawn Together. From the very beginning, there was something different about this child… An ultrasonic voice. Fantastically elastic limbs. Super-magnetic powers. But it wasn’t until the child took her first steps that she became: THE BLUR! Nothing can stand in her way as she takes the world by storm: always on the move and darting into danger! All too soon, she is zipping through the days, and zooming over the years… Framed as an origin story, here is a fun superhero romp for kids, filled with bold and bright illustrations, that will pull at the heartstrings of every parent.
The Blur was written by Minh Lê, illustrated by Dan Santat and published by Knopf Books for Young Readers. Its scheduled publication date is May 3, 2022.
Amy Wu does her best to make her new classmate feel welcome in this warmhearted and playfully illustrated follow-up picture book to Amy Wu and the Perfect Bao and Amy Wu and the Patchwork Dragon. Amy’s class has a new student from China! Amy tries hard to make Lin feel included, but she can’t draw him out of his shell. Then she sees Lin chattering happily in Chinese with his family. The gears in her head start to turn, and a plan blossoms. Step one: invite Lin to her dumpling party…. With a little help from her grandma and a shiny new banner, can Amy give Lin the warmest welcome?
Amy Wu and the Warm Welcome was written by Kat Zhang, illustrated by Charlene Chua and published by Simon & Schuster Books for Young Readers. Its scheduled publication date is May 3, 2022.
Though they may speak different languages, kids from all over the world come together to enjoy the shared pastime of tea in this delicious book for young readers.
When five-year-old Luli joins her new English as a Second Language class, the playroom is quiet. Luli can’t speak English, neither can anyone else. That’s when she has a brilliant idea to host a tea party and bring them all together.
Luli removes her teapot, thermos, and teacups from her bag and calls out “Chá!” in her native Chinese. One by one, her classmates pipe up in recognition: in Russian, Hindi, Turkish, Persian, Arabic, and Spanish, Portuguese, and Swahili. Tea is a tasty language they all know well, and it gives them a chance to share and enjoy each other’s company. When all the tea is gone and it’s time for dessert, Luli gets to use her favorite English word, cookie! After that, the playroom isn’t so quiet.
Informed by her own experience as the child of Chinese immigrant parents, Andrea Wang makes the point that when you’re looking to communicate with people, you look for a common bond. The word for “tea” is similar in many languages, and tea becomes the unifying metaphor that brings a diverse group of children together. Additional material at the back of the book explores the rich and ancient history of tea drinking across cultures all around the world and contains maps, statistics, and fascinating details that will delight young readers.
Luli and the Language of Tea was written by Andrea Wang, illustrated by Hyewon Yum and published by Neal Porter Books. Its scheduled publication date is May 17, 2022.
For fans of Eyes That Kiss in the Corners, this poetic story filled with expressive art empowers South Asian children living in the United States and celebrates being bicultural.
Pavadais in bright gold colors
Jersey shirts and faded jeans
Swapping, changing, feeling seen...
Which is the color of me?
A young girl longs to know where she fits in: Is she American? Or is she Indian? Does she have to pick or can she be both? With bright, joyful rhyme, and paired with an immersive art style using American and Indian fabrics, American Desi celebrates the experiences of young children growing up first and second generation Indian American: straddling the two cultural worlds they belong to, embracing all they love of both worlds and refusing to be limited by either. This story is a powerful tribute to the joy of being South Asian and for every reader who aspires to bridge their worlds with grace, grit, and confidence.
American Desi was written by Jyoti Rajan Gopal, illustrated by Supriya Kelkar and published by Little, Brown Books for Young Readers. Its scheduled publication date is June 21, 2022.
In this diverse picture book, a young immigrant from South Korea finds community and friendship in an apartment house filled with other newly arrived kids. When Jae looks out the window of his new home, he wishes he could still see his old village, his old house, and his old friends. But his new apartment feels empty and nothing outside is familiar. Jae just arrived from South Korea and doesn’t even speak the new language. Yet, making friends is the same wherever you go and he soon meets a girl with a colorful bird perched on her shoulder. Rosa knows just how Jae feels and the two become fast friends. Not only does Rosa show Jae his new neighborhood but she shows him how his imagination can bring back memories of his old home. Then Rosa leaves unexpectedly one night but leaves her parrot for Jae. He thinks about the song that Rosa would sing: “When I fly away, my heart stays here.” And when Jae meets two other newly arrived kids, he teaches them Rosa’s song and becomes their guide to this new world. From the creators of the highly acclaimed The Paper Kingdom, comes a new book about the importance of community and demonstrates how a simple act of kindness can be passed along to others.
Rosa's Song was written by Helena Ku Rhee, illustrated by Pascal Campion and published by Random House Studio. Its scheduled publication date is June 7, 2022.
A Chinese American ghost is forced to wear her ancient ancestor’s gown, and it's not so ghoul at school until she convinces the mean girl ghosts to accept her and her heritage. On her first day haunting a new school, all Mimi has to wear are old Chinese gowns from her great-great-great-great-great-ghost-grandmother. She wants to look horrifying and rattle chains with the cool American ghouls at school, but her ghost ancestors insist she dress and behave like a good Chinese ghost. Desperate to fit in and find a middle haunting ground between her cultures, she plans a ghastly new look. But she questions whether her haunt couture is a fabulous fright or a grave mistake when her family finds out, and another ghoul at school appropriates her Chinese fashion. This ghoulishly playful ghost story offers a boo-tiful reminder that while sometimes school and family can make you feel invisible, bicultural pride never goes out of style.
So Not Ghoul was written by Karen Yin, illustrated by Bonnie Lui and published by Page Street Kids. Its scheduled publication date is July 19, 2022.
A debut picture book about loving your name, finding your voice, and standing up for yourself from the critically acclaimed illustrator of Bilal Cooks Daal and I Am Perfectly Designed. Mirha is so excited for her first day of school! She can’t wait to learn, play, and make new friends. But when her classmates mispronounce her name, she goes home wondering if she shound find a new one. Maybe then she’d be able to find a monogrammed keychain at the gas station or order a hot chocolate at the cafe more easily. Mama helps Mirha to see how special her name is, and she returns to school the next day determined to help her classmates say it correctly—even if it takes a hundred tries.
That's Not My Name! was written and illustrated by Anoosha Syed and published by Viking Books for Young Readers. Its scheduled publication date is July 19, 2022.
Nina lives in San Francisco with her parents, and she loves visiting her two grandmas across the world. Follow Nina as her two trips unfold side by side: Young readers will love poring over the details of what is the same and what is different at Nana’s home in England and at Nenek’s home in Malaysia. In each place, Nina wears different clothes, plays different games, and eats different food. But so much about visiting Nana and Nenek is the same, from warm hugs at the airport to beach days and bedtime snuggles. Nina is equally at home across the world in Malaysia or England, and both of her grandmas love her to California and back.
Nana, Nenek & Nina was written and illustrated by Liza Ferneyhough and published by Dial Books. Its scheduled publication date is August 9, 2022.
A silly, laugh-out-loud read-aloud picture book debut from #1 New York Times bestselling author Melissa de la Cruz!
Once upon a time, in the middle of a group of seven thousand happy islands named after King Philip of Spain, there lived a lady named Doña Esmeralda.
She had a big bouffant hairdo and was much smaller than you.
And she was always hungry...
And so begins the wickedly hilarious tale of one very old, but very stylish little lady who loves to eat, but can only find the ooey, gooey, mushy, smelly leftovers of naughty children to nosh on. But what happens when Doña Esmeralda finds out about all the tasty treats that children do eat? Hold on to your hairdos as Esmeralda eats everything in sight in a cumulative read-aloud inspired by stories from author Melissa de la Cruz's childhood in the Philippines!
Doña Esmeralda, Who Ate Everything was written by Melissa de la Cruz, illustrated by Primo Gallanosa and published by Orchard Books. Its scheduled publication date is August 16, 2022.
In this universal story about embracing who we are and where we come from, a young girl finds the magic, power, and history of wearing a bindi for the first time, in this moving and lyrical picture book debut from Gita Varadarajan.
There in the mirror, I see a shining star.
My mother’s joy, my father’s pride.
And then I see something else:
I see me.
Divya is scared to put on the bindi for the first time. What if she gets made fun of? What will it feel like? But Amma assures her that her bindi will bring protection. After Divya looks inside Amma’s special box to find the perfect bindi to put on, she gazes in the mirror and discovers a new side of herself, and it gives her strength. In this tender debut picture book, author Gita Varadarajan crafts a powerful story about belonging, embracing your heritage, and believing in yourself. Archana Sreenivasan's vibrant and magical illustrations bring to life this journey of self-discovery. My Bindi is a universal message of the importance finding oneself and celebrating the unique beliefs and experiences that make us who we are.
My Bindi was written by Gita Varadarajan, illustrated by Archana Sreenivasan and published by Scholastic Inc. Its scheduled publication date is August 16, 2022.
Once, in a tiny village in India, there was a young boy who loved to paint. He lived with his grandfather, who taught him to paint with his fingers, to make paints from marigolds and brushes made from jasmine flowers. Sometimes, the village children would watch them painting together, and the boy's grandfather would invite them to join in. They didn't have much, but they had each other. After his grandfather dies, the boy notices a little box wrapped in string with a note that read: "From Dadaji, with love," with his grandfather's best paintbrush tucked away inside. But he feels he will never want to paint again. Will the boy overcome his grief and find joy in painting and his dadaji's memory again? From Rashmi Sirdeshpande and Ruchi Mhasane comes a lushly illustrated tale of love, art, and family.
Dadaji's Paintbrush was written by Rashmi Sirdeshpande, illustrated by Ruchi Mhasane and published by Levine Querido. Its scheduled publication date is August 23, 2022.
A nonfiction picture book about the great-great granddaughter of Genghis Khan, and how she defied the expectations of her time to become commander of the Khan’s army.
Just like the fourteen brothers that came before her, Khutulun learned from an early age how to ride horseback, shoot arrows at full gallop and, most importantly, to wrestle. But as she grew older, her people wondered why their beloved princess had not yet married. So she vowed to marry any man that could defeat her at wrestling. Though she remained undefeated, Khutulun felt duty bound to throw a match to end the rumors and restore honor to her family. But when the day arrives, Khutulun's heart is torn. In the heat of battle, would she—could she—make the decision to become a wife and not a warrior? A story based on the life and legend of Khutulun, Warrior Princess is an inspiring tale of a princess who realizes that sometimes the best way to serve one’s community is to stay true to oneself.
Warrior Princess: The Story of Khutulun was written and illustrated by Sally Deng and published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux Books for Young Readers. Its scheduled publication date is August 23, 2022.
A young girl in the Philippines uses music to connect with her grandmother as her memory fades in this warm and moving picture book perfect for fans of Pixar’s Coco. There is always singing in Lola’s house. Sammy Davis Jr. in the morning, Dean Martin in the afternoon, and all throughout the evening, old Tagalog love songs from Nora Aunor, Basil Valdez, and more. Lola always says: “If you want to hold on, you gotta sing your songs.” Her granddaughter tucks these sounds and Lola’s wisdom deep within her heart. And when Lola starts slipping into silence and stillness, she helps Lola hold on, piece by piece, with the joy and music that Lola taught her.
Holding On was written by Sophia N. Lee, illustrated by Isabel Roxas and published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers. Its scheduled publication date is August 30, 2022.
In time for the 75th anniversary of the Partition of British India, this picture book is a stirring account of the harrowing journey faced by millions of migrants in the aftermath of the division of India and Pakistan. Azra knows that wherever she goes, her doll Gurya will follow. Even if it’s on a train that will take her far away from the house her family has lived in for generations. Even if there is a new flag flying in Dehradun, and no place left in it for Azra. At least she will be taking a piece of home with her. But when Abba comes home and says they must leave right now, Gurya gets left behind in the scramble. Will Azra be strong enough to face the long journey alone? And what will happen to Gurya, now hundreds of miles behind them? Inspired by the author’s family story, this lyrical, moving picture book is a testament to the strength, courage, and perseverance of the over 10 million refugees displaced by the largest forced migration in recorded history, and shares a young girl’s journey from her old home to a new one.
The Moon from Dehradun: A Story of Partition was written by Shirin Shamsi, illustrated by Tarun Lak and published by Atheneum Books for Young Readers. Its scheduled publication date is August 30, 2022.
Anni’s on a mission to YUM! The café across the street from Anni’s home in Little India makes the best biryani in the world. Fluffy and fragrant, spicy and succulent―Anni could eat it every day. In fact, Anni loves that biryani so much that she’s determined to uncover the secret to the recipe. She has so many questions for Uncle, the grumpy chef and owner of the café. But he isn’t providing any easy clues. So, with some careful planning, Anni sets out on a mission to find out the secret ingredients to this most special dish. Will Anni get the answers she’s looking for…before it’s too late?
Anni Dreams of Biryani was written by Namita Moolani Mehra, illustrated by Chaaya Prabhat and published by Two Lions. Its scheduled publication date is September 1, 2022.
Katie Yamasaki’s newest picture book celebrates the life of her grandfather, the acclaimed Japanese American architect Minoru Yamasaki. Minoru Yamasaki described the feeling he sought to create in his buildings as “serenity, surprise, and delight.” Here, Katie Yamasaki charts his life and work: his childhood in Seattle’s Japanese immigrant community, paying his way through college working in Alaska’s notorious salmon canneries, his success in architectural school, and the transformative structures he imagined and built. A Japanese American man who faced brutal anti-Asian racism in post–World War II America and an outsider to the architectural establishment, he nonetheless left his mark on the world, from the American Midwest to New York City, Asia, and the Middle East. This striking picture book renders one artist’s work through the eyes of another, and tells a story of a man whose vision, hard work, and humanity led him to the pinnacle of his field.
Shapes, Lines, and Light: My Grandfather's American Journey was written and illustrated by Katie Yamasaki and published by Norton Books for Young Readers. Its scheduled publication date is September 6, 2022.
Art and family transcend differences in language and culture in this sensitively told, exquisitely illustrated story of a child starting a new school. When Shu Lin starts at her new school, she wears yellow rain boots and a pink coat. At recess, she stands alone in the playground. At lunchtime, she eats by herself from little boxes of brightly colored food. Her classmates aren’t sure what to make of her. But one day, when Shu Lin’s grandpa comes to school to share his amazing artwork, everything changes. With a stunning double-gatefold spread revealing a beautiful Chinese painting, this uplifting story shows the transformative power of art and imagination in developing cultural understanding and empathy.
Shu Lin's Grandpa was written by Matt Goodfellow, illustrated by Yu Rong and published by Candlewick Press. Its scheduled publication date is September 13, 2022.
Our Querido list is a wonder cabinet that we are filling with treasures from around the world. Here, from China, is a gorgeous story about generosity and gratitude, adapted from a traditional Buddhist tale by Kailin Duan. Her illustration style evokes artwork contemporary to the story's origins more than a thousand years ago, found in the famous Mogao caves, (located at a religious and cultural crossroads on the Silk Road, in Gansu province, China.)
The story begins deep in the Kunlun Hills with a legendary deer whose fur has nine colors. One day she hears a cry for help and rescues a drowning man. When the man asks how he could ever repay this kindness, the Nine Color Deer simply requests that the man never reveal her whereabouts. But will this promise survive a bounty offered by a King and Queen who seek the magic of the deer for their kingdom? Award-winning translator Jeremy Tiang offers readers his own gift in making Kailin Duan's interpretation sparkle in English, while Duan's illustrations speak beautifully for themselves.
Nine Color Deer was written and illustrated by Kailin Duan, translated by Jeremy Tiang and published by Levine Querido. Its scheduled publication date is September 13, 2022.
Count along in celebration of Diwali, the Indian Festival of Lights, in this luminous picture book from bestselling mother-son duo Surishtha and Kabir Sehgal. Count up to ten and back down again to the tune of “One, Two, Buckle My Shoe” while learning about the traditions that make Diwali a fun-filled festival! Celebrated during autumn harvest, Diwali symbolizes the triumph of good over evil and light over darkness. From sweet treats to intricate henna designs to exciting firework displays, kids will delight in this vibrant glimpse into the Festival of Lights.
It's Diwali! was written by Kabir Sehgal and Surishtha Sehgal, illustrated by Archana Sreenivasan and published by Beach Lane Books. Its scheduled publication date is September 6, 2022.
Given Tammy Duckworth’s personal heroism as an Army veteran, her stunning recovery from injuries sustained in the line of duty, and her subsequent career as an influential US senator, it’s easy to see why Joe Biden earmarked her as a possible running mate during his Democratic presidential campaign. Senator Duckworth has logged a long list of firsts during her tenure as the first Thai American member of Congress, including being the first woman with a disability to serve in the House and Senate. But it is her tireless determination to keep going against staggering odds that will rivet readers of all ages. Christina Soontornvat’s narrative biography of this groundbreaking military veteran and rising political star will inspire readers to dream and achieve. Evoking Senator Duckworth’s spirited nature with sensitivity and joy, this dramatic account of a life lived in the service of others includes a time line and suggestions for further reading.
A Life of Service: The Story of Senator Tammy Duckworth was written by Christina Soontornvat, illustrated by Dow Phumiruk and published by Candlewick Press. Its scheduled publication date is September 13, 2022.
The fabric of America is made up of countless threads weaving together different backgrounds and cultures. Using poetry and expository text, A is for Asian American: An Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Alphabet celebrates the cultures of and contributions from Asian Americans throughout our country's history. Letter topics include traditions in food, family, and social celebrations, as well as key moments in history and milestone achievements. A is for Asian American illuminates the amazing and ongoing role the Asian American community has played in the shaping of America. Front and back matter provides additional information, including a glossary.
A Is for Asian American: An Asian Pacific Islander Desi American Alphabet was written by Virginia Loh-Hagan, illustrated by Tracy Nishimura Bishop and published by Sleeping Bear Press. Its scheduled publication date is September 13, 2022.
June's family has a new home in America. There’s plenty to do before their restaurant opens, but Mama is excited when she finds the previous owners have left a Lucky Cat! It’s meant to bring good luck to their ventures, and June is even more excited the next evening when she finds that the statue can come to life.
But unfortunately, Lucky Cat doesn’t seem that lucky. He has the best intentions but he knocks over the vinegar bottle, rips holes in people’s clothing and sneezes on all the customers. Luckily, June learns that real luck is earned through hard work and perseverance as the family embark on a new venture, close to their hearts.
This beautiful book, authored by the hosts of the hugely popular AsianBossGirl podcast and packed with lively, characterful illustrations from the exceptionally talented Eunice Chen tells a funny and uplifting tale of family love and fitting in in a new country.
Lucky Cat was written by Melody Cheng, Helen Wu, and Janet Wang, illustrated by Eunice Chen and published by Frances Lincoln Children’s Books. Its scheduled publication date is September 20, 2022.
Bonnie's father is an engineer for the Apollo 11 space mission. Bonnie is an engineer too, developing a model rocket that she plans to shoot high into the sky. While Baba works on the moon-landing module far away, Bonnie designs, builds, and tests her own project -- with sometimes disastrous results! Throughout the process, Baba's letters encourage her in her work, and after the astronauts return from the moon, Baba comes home in time to see Bonnie launch her amazing rocket.
Inspired by the experiences of the author's grandfather, who helped design the space suits and life-support systems on the Apollo 11 lunar module, Bonnie's Rocket celebrates the diverse team that contributed to one of the United States's greatest achievements. It's also a heartwarming father-daughter story and a terrific gift for budding engineers and space fans of all ages.
Bonnie’s Rocket was written by Emeline Lee, illustrated by Alina Chau and published by Lee & Low Books. Its scheduled publication date is September 27, 2022.
For fans of I Am Golden, an empowering picture book about a South Asian girl who recognizes the beauty of her own brown skin as she finds and collects beautiful brown things during a walk in the woods—by an award-winning South Asian author!
Brown is beautiful.
On a hike with her grandparents, a young Indian-American girl makes note of all the things in the wilderness that are brown, too. From a nurturing mother bear, to the steadiness of deep twisting roots, to the beauty of a wild mustang, brown is everywhere! On her way, the girl collects the beautiful brown things she encounters as mementos for a scrap book to share with a very special new addition to her family—a baby brother.
Brown is you.
Brown is me.
Here is an uplifting, tender exploration of beauty, joy, and self-love, with playful illustrations by rising star and South Asian illustrator Noor Sofi.
Brown Is Beautiful was written by Supriya Kelkar, illustrated by Noor Sofi and published by Farrar Straus and Giroux Books for Young Readers. Its scheduled publication date is October 4, 2022.
Whether round and crunchy like a kimchi pancake or pinched and plump like a kimchi dumpling, there are so many ways to enjoy this Korean traditional dish.
Explore the different ways to eat kimchi in this fun, rhyming tale that also teaches the days of the week. Korean-American author-illustrator Erica Kim shares her pride in her delicious cultural food through her cut paper art technique. The Hanji paper that is used to illustrate the book comes from a paper mulberry tree native to Korea.
Kimchi, Kimchi Every Day was written and illustrated by Erica Kim and published by Soaring Kite Books. Its scheduled publication date is October 4, 2022.
Let’s stay connected to each other! A distracted parent comes to appreciate a child’s imagination and the importance of paying attention in this whimsical tale, inspired by Chinese folk culture. A child and his dad are off for a day in the countryside—but the dad is perpetually distracted by his computer screen, unable to see what his child sees: genies outside the bus windows, in the trees, behind rocks, everywhere! As the child tries again and again to get dad’s attention, the dad grows frustrated, until—oh no!—he turns into a roaring bear. But now, finally, he can see the parade of magical creatures, and parent and child join in a joyful, fantastical parade. Debut artist Qiaoqiao Li’s dreamy illustrations bring to life this magical story about the power of unplugging from our devices so we can plug into the scenes of wonder ready to burst out of our imaginations.
Dad, Don’t Miss It! was written and illustrated by Qiaoqiao Li and published by mineditionUS. Its scheduled publication date is October 18, 2022.
A delicious ode to food, family, and togetherness that celebrates Lunar New Year. A little girl and her family are hosting a New Year party, an event marking the Lunar New Year. There’s a lot to do before the guests arrive! First, a trip to the market to fill up the Tray of Togetherness, a special candy box for the partygoers. Each of the eight lucky snacks in the Tray has an auspicious meaning: peanuts for a long life, pistachios for happiness, candied coconut for strong family ties…As the family returns home, they pass out delicious good wishes to the friends and neighbors they meet along the way. After the tray has been prepared and the decorations set up, it’s time for the party! A diverse group of relatives and friends gathers, ready to celebrate the New Year with the Tray of Togetherness. This sensory, food-focused story is brought to life with eye-catching illustrations and a little girl’s cheerful narration. Debut author/illustrator Flo Leung encourages readers to explore culturally specific Lunar New Year practices, while offering a universal message about carrying on traditions and creating community.
The Tray of Togetherness was written and illustrated by Flo Leung and published by Owlkids. Its scheduled publication date is October 18, 2022.
A stunning anthology licensed in partnership with the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center, We Are Here celebrates 30 of the most inspiring Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in U.S. history.
There are more than 23 million people of Asian and Pacific Islander descent living in the United States. Their stories span across generations, as well as across the world. We Are Here highlights thirty Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and the impact they’ve had on the cultural, social, and political fabric of the United States.
Profiles include: Amanda Nguyen * Bruno Mars * Grace Lee Boggs * Lakshmi Singh * Naomi Osaka * Philip Vera Cruz * Vishavjit Singh * Shirin Neshat * Thenmozhi Soundararajan * Schuyler Miwon Hong Bailar * Channapha Khamvongsa * Lydia XZ Brown * Etel Adnan * Cien-Shiung Wu * Jerry Yang * Carissa Moore * Craig Santos Perez * Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson * Eddie Aikau * John Kneubuhl * Kathy Jernil-Kijiner * Keanu Reeves * Kumu Hina * Manny Crisotomo * Momi Cazimero * Teresa Teaiwa * Mau Piailug * Taimane Gardner * Calvin and Charlene Hoe * Dinah Jane
We Are Here was written by Naomi Hirahara, illustrated by Illianette Ferandez and published by Running Press Kids. Its scheduled publication date is October 18, 2022.
This important work of nonfiction features powerful images of the Japanese American incarceration captured by three photographers—Dorothea Lange, Toyo Miyatake, and Ansel Adams—along with firsthand accounts of this grave moment in history.
Three months after Japan attacked Pearl Harbor in 1941, US President Franklin D. Roosevelt ordered the incarceration of all Japanese and Japanese Americans living on the West Coast of the United States. Families, teachers, farm workers—all were ordered to leave behind their homes, their businesses, and everything they owned. Japanese and Japanese Americans were forced to live under hostile conditions in incarceration camps, their futures uncertain. Three photographers set out to document life at Manzanar, an incarceration camp in the California desert:
Dorothea Lange was a photographer from San Francisco best known for her haunting Depression-era images. Dorothea was hired by the US government to record the conditions of the camps. Deeply critical of the policy, she wanted her photos to shed light on the harsh reality of incarceration.
Toyo Miyatake was a Japanese-born, Los Angeles–based photographer who lent his artistic eye to portraying dancers, athletes, and events in the Japanese community. Imprisoned at Manzanar, he devised a way to smuggle in photographic equipment, determined to show what was really going on inside the barbed-wire confines of the camp.
Ansel Adams was an acclaimed landscape photographer and environmentalist. Hired by the director of Manzanar, Ansel hoped his carefully curated pictures would demonstrate to the rest of the United States the resilience of those in the camps.
In Seen and Unseen, Elizabeth Partridge and Lauren Tamaki weave together these photographers' images, firsthand accounts, and stunning original art to examine the history, heartbreak, and injustice of the Japanese American incarceration.
Seen and Unseen : What Dorothea Lange, Toyo Miyatake, and Ansel Adams's Photographs Reveal About the Japanese American Incarceration was written by Elizabeth Partridge, illustrated by Lauren Tamaki and published by Chronicle Books. Its scheduled publication date is October 25, 2022.
A legendary race determined the order of the animals in the Chinese zodiac calendar . . . but what happened to Cat, the one animal who never received a year? Rat, Cat, and their eleven friends star in this innovative, funny animal adventure that introduces young readers to both the Chinese zodiac and the concept of apologizing. Themes of friendship, making amends, and realizing the consequences of our actions will draw in fans of This Is Not My Hat and We Don’t Eat Our Classmates.
Rat won the Great Race, which determined the order of the Chinese zodiac calendar. But he did it using trickery that left poor Cat behind. Now, Rat wants to make amends . . . or so he says. Rat, Pig, Dog, Sheep, Monkey, Rooster, Horse, Snake, Dragon, Tiger, Rabbit, and Ox all set off to apologize to Cat. Yet somehow, by the end of the journey, Rat is the only one left. And Cat has a surprise for him.
Richard Ho’s sly and perfectly paced text unfolds an exciting animal adventure, full of nods to the traditional Great Race tale. And watch out for an unexpected, delicious twist when Cat doesn’t find Rat’s apology quite sincere! Jocelyn Li Langrand’s joyful and expressive illustrations bring the journey to vibrant life, full of details that reward a closer look. Together, text and art are an homage to the traditional Great Race tale and a funny, subversive update for today’s young readers.
Every year is the year of the Cat!
Year of the Cat was written by Richard Ho, illustrated by Jocelyn Li Langrand and published by Greenwillow Books. Its scheduled publication date is November 1, 2022.
By now, you have probably heard the old folk tale about a girl in a red cape.
The truth is that the story took place here in China, there wasn’t a woodsman, and I, the gentle wolf, certainly was not the one who ate them.
Here is the real story.
This is not the story you think you know. In this version of the classic fairy tale, Little Red lives in a village near the Great Wall and trains in kung fu. When she ventures to her grandmother’s to deliver rice cakes and herbal medicine, she encounters something much more fearsome than a wolf—a mighty dragon. With her wits and a sword in hand, Little Red must valiantly defend herself and her grandmother in this vibrant retelling from Ying Chang Compestine and Joy Ang.
An author’s note discusses how this reimagining is influenced by Chinese mythology, symbolism, traditional medicine, and other elements of Compestine’s heritage.
Little Red Riding Hood and the Dragon was written by Ying Chang Compestine, illustrated by Joy Ang and published by Abrams Books for Young Readers. Its scheduled publication date is November 1, 2022.
Maya Lin is known throughout the world as the creator of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Washington, DC. But many people weren’t happy when she was chosen to design the memorial, objecting to her gender, age, race, and more. Still, she persisted, and her design stands out today as one of the most memorable monuments in the country. Her creations, which were always connected to surrounding landscapes and nature, have inspired many to follow in her footsteps and follow their creative dreams.
In this chapter book biography by bestselling and award-winning author Grace Lin, readers learn about the amazing life of Maya Lin--and how she persisted.
Complete with an introduction from Chelsea Clinton, black-and-white illustrations throughout, and a list of ways that readers can follow in Maya Lin's footsteps and make a difference!
She Persisted: Maya Lin was written by Grace Lin. The She Persisted chapter book series is based on the bestselling picture book series by Chelsea Clinton and Alexandra Boiger. Its scheduled publication date is November 1, 2022.
A picture book biography about a powerful Indian female singer who advocated for justice, feminism, and peace through song. Before M.S. Subbulakshmi was a famous carnatic singer and the first Indian woman to perform at the United Nations, she was a young girl with a prodigious voice. But Subbulakshmi was not free to sing everywhere. In 1930s India, girls were not allowed to perform for the public. So Subbulaskhmi fought to sing at small festivals. Eventually, she broke tradition to record her first album. At Gandhi's request, Subbulakshmi sang for the nation during the partition of India and Pakistan. Her fame stretched across borders, and soon she was no longer just a young prodigy. She was a woman who changed the world.
In this timely historical picture book biography, debut author Suma Subramaniam and illustrator Shreya Gupta illuminate a legendary singer's indomitable spirit and revolutionary voice.
She Sang for India: How M.S. Subbulakshmi Used Her Voice for Change was written by Suma Subramaniam, illustrated by Shreya Gupta and published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux Books for Young Readers. Its scheduled publication date is November 8, 2022.
Isamu Noguchi is one of the most important sculptors of all time. His Akari lamps changed the way modern buildings light their space. But before he was important, he was a kid. This is his story.
Noguchi was a Japanese American artist who gave the world light. The world, however, was not always so giving in return. Growing up mixed-race, born in the United States but raised in Japan, Noguchi found himself perceived as an outsider who did not belong in either country. Unable to identify fully as either Japanese or American, he conceived of himself as a snail, capable of retreating into his creative shell when the world did not embrace him. Through his art, the Snail could shape, hold, and create light—to conquer the darkness without.
Poetic and searing, heart-wrenching and exquisite, Emily Hughes's paean to creativity explores emotions ravaged by a history of Japanese incarceration, the effects of personal isolation, and the power of art to heal those wounds.
The Snail was written and illustrated by Emily Hughes and published by Chronicle Books. Its scheduled publication date is November 8, 2022.
Award-winning author Ying Compestine reimagines the classic fairy tale "Little Red Riding Hood" from a Chinese perspective.
By now, you have probably heard the old folk tale about a girl in a red cape.
The truth is that the story took place here in China, there wasn’t a woodsman, and I, the gentle wolf, certainly was not the one who ate them.
Here is the real story.
This is not the story you think you know. In this version of the classic fairy tale, Little Red lives in a village near the Great Wall and trains in kung fu. When she ventures to her grandmother’s to deliver rice cakes and herbal medicine, she encounters something much more fearsome than a wolf—a mighty dragon. With her wits and a sword in hand, Little Red must valiantly defend herself and her grandmother in this vibrant retelling from Ying Chang Compestine and Joy Ang. An author’s note discusses how this reimagining is influenced by Chinese mythology, symbolism, traditional medicine, and other elements of Compestine’s heritage.
Little Red Riding Hood and the Dragon was written by Ying Chang Compestine, illustrated by Joy Ang and published by Abrams Books for Young Readers. Its scheduled publication date is November 1, 2022.
It’s almost time for the party! One-by-one all the animals of the zodiac go up the hill, each one carrying an ingredient. Horse trots up the hill with a big wok. Goat strolls up the hill with wild onions.
Except for snake, that is. It’s his birthday! All of his friends have prepared long noodles to celebrate his long and happy life. Simple text is paired with delightful, friendly art in this joyous look at the Chinese tradition of preparing long noodles to celebrate birthdays, the New Year, and other festive occasions.
A kid-friendly recipe for how to make Dragon Beard Noodles, a dish popular in Northern China, is included as well as a note on the Chinese Zodiac.
Dragon Noodle Party was written by Ying Chang Compestine, illustrated by Paula Pang and published by Holiday House. Its scheduled publication date is December 6, 2022.
This funny and heartwarming follow-up to Grandpa Grumps celebrates Lunar New Year and the love of a doting grandparent.
"You should sleep on the long flight," said Mama.
Daisy should have slept-
but she didn't.
She was too excited to see Yeh-Yeh!
Daisy is traveling to China, and she's excited to see her Yeh-Yeh again! She has big plans for all the fun they'll have together in preparation for Lunar New Year, like flying kites and making jiao zi. But when she arrives, she has trouble sleeping and is less jolly than she hoped. Throughout the week, Yeh-Yeh tries all sorts of things to help her have a fun holiday and get her past her grumpiness. Will Daisy be able to get some rest and have one perfect day before she goes home?
Grumpy New Year was written by Katrina Moore, illustrated by Xindi Yan and published by Little Bee Books. Its scheduled publication date is December 13, 2022.
This Chinese-English bilingual board book combines counting with the months of the year, gently introducing young readers to these concepts. One white crane sitting, two black bears sleeping . . . Simply told and beautifully rendered, this counting board book takes young readers through the months of the year. Each month focuses on a new animal and activity, from seals swimming in May to cicadas singing in September. Sweet, accessible text in English and Chinese pairs with eye-catching art for a wonderful repeat reading experience.
One White Crane : A Bilingual Counting Book of the Months was written by Vickie Lee, illustrated by Joey Chou and published by Henry Holt and Co. Books for Younger Readers. Its scheduled publication date is December 13, 2022.
In this heartwarming picture book, an Asian American girl shares how her family expresses their love for one another through actions rather than words.
How do you tell your family that you love them? For Hana, love is all around her: Mom stirs love into a steaming pot of xifan. Dad cheers with love at her soccer game. Hana says good night with love by rubbing her grandma's feet and pouring her grandpa his sleepy tea. And as the light fades, Hana's parents tuck her into bed and give her a good night kiss.
So many families express their love in all they do for one another, every day. Here is a book that wraps you in a hug and invites your family to share their own special ways of showing love.
How We Say I Love You was written by Nicole Chen, illustrated by Lenny Wen and published by Knopf Books for Young Readers. Its scheduled publication date is December 13, 2022.
A fun and informative celebration of Seollal, the Korean Lunar New Year!
Seollal is Mina's favorite day of the year. She can't wait to show her classmates her hanbok and make tteokguk in the cooking room. Even her little brother, who wants to wear his shark shirt, not his hanbok, eventually joins in on the fun. This sweet window into Seollal offers a fresh perspective on the holiday while celebrating diversity and cultural acceptance.
Tomorrow Is New Year’s Day: Seollal, a Korean Celebration of Lunar New Year was written and illustrated by Aram Kim and published by Farrar, Straus and Giroux Books for Young Readers. Its scheduled publication date is December 27, 2022.