Review Detail

Reading the book The Chinese New Year Helper brought me back to my childhood and how I wanted to help my family prepare for holiday celebrations. This delightful picture book is about a young girl named Jia who wants to help her family with the Chinese New Year celebration at their restaurant. Each time Jia offers to help, she is told she is too young. Readers can empathize with Jia's frustration as her offer to help is rejected. Things turn around when the lion dancers arrive. They have Jia help them with the most important parts of the celebration.


What I Liked: I find reading about all of the Chinese New Year traditions like the lion dance and the lanterns fascinating. This story is not only about Chinese New Year, but also about how Jai feels when her family doesn't need her help. A lot of young readers will relate to that issue. The vivid illustrations enhance the story and make it stand out.

What Left Me Wanting More: I appreciate stories that have a glossary to help with the pronouniciation of words I am not familiar with. This did not have one so I had to look up how to pronounce Jai's name. Those small details can make a difference.

The Chinese New Year Helper is a sweet story that teaches you the importance of Chinese New Year and family.