Review Detail

An awesome book for the new year season, exploring activities and traditions through the eyes of two sisters. Eloise does her best to help her older sister Madeleine make everything just right, but when Madeleine is getting caught up in how much there is to be done, the two sisters help each other see that it's the memories and the moments that make the day truly special, more than the perfect meal or decorations.

There's so much to love about this story. As an older sister, I definitely relate to Madeleine's sense of responsibility, and the importance she sees in getting everything just right. There's also lots to learn about the traditional Korean clothing, foods, and other related vocabulary which are included in the story (and listed in a helpful glossary). The additional information about a charaesang set-up activity and mandoo recipe round out the book (I have to appreciate this line from the recipe: "Adults should do the cooking while children watch from a safe distance." Safety first!)

A perfect read to get excited for and remember Korean New Year.