Celebrate the Year of the Wood Dragon with these eight books for kids! Wood represents vitality and creativity, while the dragon is related to success, intelligence and honor in Chinese culture.
A festive lift-the-flap book introduces the customs of Chinese New Year, such as shopping at the outdoor market for fresh flowers, eating New Year’s dinner with the whole family, receiving red envelopes from Grandma and Grandpa, and watching the spectacular parade.
Welcome to Chinatown by William Low
A gorgeous board-book adaptation that includes text in English and Chinese transports little ones to Chinatown where they can see people practicing tai chi, shoe cobblers, rows of herbs, outdoor fish markets and, best of all, a New Year’s Day parade, complete with both lion and dragon dances, when the Lunar New Year begins.
Nian, the Chinese New Year Dragon by Virginia Loh-Hagan
A retelling of the Nian legend follows the experiences of a young girl who takes action when her village is threatened by a dragon, in a culturally inspired picture book that also explains why the Chinese New Year is celebrated for 15 days.
Celebrate Chinese New Year by Carolyn Otto
An introduction to the customs and culture of Chinese New Year profiles such traditions as red envelope lycee money, poem exchanges, tributes to family ancestors, the Festival of Lanterns and the famous Dragon Dance.
Chloe’s Lunar New Year by Lily LaMotte
In her debut picture book, the author of Measuring Up presents a special Lunar New Year feast where young Chloe, her little brother and their multiracial family celebrate this wonderful holiday and all its traditions.
Moonbeams, Dumplings & Dragon Boats by Nina Simonds
Jam-packed with delicious recipes, interactive family activities, and traditional stories, an exceptional collection brings to life the magic and wonder of Chinese holidays throughout the year.
Chinese New Year by Alice K. Flanagan
Explains the history, significance, and traditions of Chinese New Year.
How to Catch a Dragon by Adam Wallace
A real, wily dragon winds through streets in China, eluding the traps set by a group of children during the Chinese New Year celebration.
