(3) K-3 Illustrated by Alina Chau. In contemporary Shanghai, Xingling saves her city from the Nian Monster, traditionally scared away each Chinese New Year by "loud sounds, fire, and the color red." Xingling outsmarts the monster, staving him off with festive foods, then finally sending him skyward at the fireworks. Festive watercolors of city scenes add to the celebration in this humorous holiday read-aloud. Author's note included.

Reviewer: Melinda Greenblatt

(3) K-3 Illustrated by Alina Chau. A sweet picture book in verse (with poem titles in Chinese and English) explores the feelings of Chinese American siblings who move from San Francisco to a colder, rural home. Nai Nai (grandmother) gives them each a present for "double happiness": special boxes to be filled with memories connecting their old house to their new. Chau's vibrant watercolors combine Chinese themes and American scenes.

Reviewer: Melinda Greenblatt