“In a book that is itself a celebration, Demi explains the rituals and ideas behind the Chinese New Year festival. The last 15 days of the old year are spent cleaning and preparing (‘Wash your hair and get a new haircut. Pay the debts that you owe and collect what is owed to you!’). On the eve of the new moon, a special feast is prepared. . . . The first 15 days of the new year are spent celebrating with lion dances, firecrackers, and other activities. Demi’s characteristic tiny, lively figures illustrate each page, with several spreads devoted to small, labeled pictures identifying things associated with the holiday. Infused with joy and filled with information.”—BooklistKung-Hsi Fa-Ts’Ai! Happy New Year! The Chinese New Year is all about fresh starts. Taking place during China’s springtime (usually January or February in the Western calendar), celebrations include sweeping and dusting, paying off debts, catching up on homework, cooking and eating, setting off firecrackers, and dancing. Acclaimed author/illustrator Demi’s delightful little ode to the Chinese New Year describes in intriguing detail each of these festivities and more. Accompanying the text are Demi’s intricate and vibrant illustrations featuring Chinese children and adults participating exuberantly in each event–even mopping floors and washing hair seem like joyful occasions! We learn about the symbols behind traditional foods: “Pork brings wealth,” “Sweet-and-sour fish signifies surplus,” “Fried rice symbolizes harmony and plenty.” And we marvel at the gorgeous dragons, lions, kites, and door guardians that dance, fly, and stand guard throughout the days of the New Year.
Demi’s interest in Eastern traditional celebrations and lore are reflected in many of her other works for children: Buddha, Liang and the Magic Paintbrush, and another Chinese New Year title, Happy New Year/Kung-Hsi Fa-Ts’ai!. (Ages 5 to 8) –Emilie Coulter
Save your Money & buy her other book This is the very same book as ” Happy New Year Kung-Hsi Fa-Ts’ Ai! ISBN: 051788592,which is also by Demi. It’s the very same illustrations & information, but this book has less pages. Save your money and buy Demi’s other book and get more pages & information for your money!
This book has beautiful pictures and gives a simple and true look into the traditional activities leading up to and during Chinese New Year.