Chinese New Year Books: A Curated 2024 Updated List

If you’re eager to dive into the rich traditions and vibrant celebrations of Chinese New Year, look no further than these 20 captivating books on Chinese New Year. From heartwarming stories to insightful cultural guides, these books offer a fascinating glimpse into the festive spirit and customs of this joyous occasion. Whether you’re a bookworm or simply curious about Chinese New Year, these recommended reads are sure to enlighten and entertain!

20 Best Books About Chinese New Year

The Nian Monster

by Andrea Wang

The Nian Monster by Andrea Wang is a delightful book about Chinese New Year that combines traditional Chinese folklore with a heartwarming message of bravery and friendship. The story follows a young girl named Xingling who must outsmart the Nian Monster, a fearsome creature that terrorizes her village every year on the eve of the lunar new year. With the help of her grandmother and some clever thinking, Xingling discovers the monster’s weakness and devises a plan to save her village.

This book on Chinese New Year is beautifully illustrated and filled with cultural details that bring the holiday to life. It is a perfect read for children and families looking to learn more about the Chinese New Year traditions and customs. The Nian Monster is a heartwarming and empowering story that celebrates courage, ingenuity, and the spirit of the lunar new year.

The Runaway Wok

by Ying Chang Compestine

The Runaway Wok by Ying Chang Compestine is a delightful children’s book about the Chinese New Year. The story follows a poor family who receives a magical wok that helps them bring good fortune to their village. The wok, filled with delicious food, comes to life and leads the family on a series of adventures, spreading joy and generosity along the way. This heartwarming tale is filled with vibrant illustrations and is perfect for young readers who want to learn about the traditions and customs of the Lunar New Year. The book captures the spirit of the holiday and emphasizes the importance of kindness and community. The Runaway Wok is a charming and engaging way to introduce children to the joy and excitement of the Chinese New Year.

Bringing in the New Year

by Grace Lin

Bringing in the New Year by Grace Lin is a delightful picture book about the festive traditions and customs surrounding the Chinese New Year. Through vibrant illustrations and simple text, the book captures the excitement and joy of this important holiday. Readers will follow a Chinese American family as they prepare for the New Year, with activities such as cleaning the house, making dumplings, and decorating with red paper lanterns. This heartwarming story is a perfect introduction for young readers to the rich cultural traditions of the Lunar New Year. With its colorful and engaging illustrations, Bringing in the New Year is a must-read for anyone looking for a fun and educational book on Chinese New Year.

The Great Race: The Story of the Chinese Zodiac

by Dawn Casey

The Great Race: The Story of the Chinese Zodiac by Dawn Casey is a captivating book on Chinese New Year that tells the legendary tale of how the animals raced to determine their position in the zodiac. This beautifully illustrated book about Chinese New Year follows the animals as they navigate obstacles and showcase their unique skills in a thrilling race. Readers will be engrossed in the folklore and customs associated with the Chinese New Year as they learn about each animal’s personality and the order of the zodiac. The Great Race is a delightful and educational Chinese New Year book that celebrates the rich traditions and culture of this festive holiday.

Ruby’s Chinese New Year

by Vickie Lee

Ruby’s Chinese New Year by Vickie Lee is a delightful children’s book about the festive celebration of the Lunar New Year. The story follows Ruby as she prepares for the holiday with her family, learning about traditions and customs along the way. From cleaning the house to enjoying a delicious reunion dinner, readers are immersed in the vibrant and colorful world of Chinese New Year. With beautiful illustrations and engaging storytelling, this book is a perfect introduction to the customs and excitement of the Lunar New Year. Whether you’re looking for a book on Chinese New Year to share with your little ones or simply want to learn more about this special holiday, Ruby’s Chinese New Year is a heartwarming and educational read for all ages.

The Year of the Dog

by Grace Lin

The Year of the Dog by Grace Lin is a heartwarming and insightful book about the Chinese New Year. This charming story follows a young Taiwanese-American girl named Pacy as she navigates her identity and heritage during the Year of the Dog. Through humorous and relatable anecdotes, Pacy learns about the customs, traditions, and significance of the Chinese New Year, while also discovering the importance of family, friendship, and self-discovery. Grace Lin’s delightful illustrations and engaging storytelling make this book a perfect choice for young readers to learn about the Chinese New Year in a fun and meaningful way. The Year of the Dog is a wonderful celebration of Chinese culture and a great addition to any library seeking a book on Chinese New Year.

The Dancing Dragon

by Marcia K. Vaughan

The Dancing Dragon by Marcia K. Vaughan is a captivating and vibrant book about Chinese New Year. The story follows a young boy named Alex as he experiences the excitement of preparing for the traditional Chinese New Year’s parade. As Alex and his family get ready for the celebration, they build a magnificent dragon costume and practice their dragon dance. Through vivid illustrations and engaging storytelling, readers will be immersed in the festive atmosphere of the Chinese New Year as they learn about the customs and traditions associated with this joyous holiday. The book also highlights the significance of family, community, and the spirit of togetherness during this special time of year. The Dancing Dragon is a delightful and educational book on Chinese New Year that will enchant readers of all ages.

The Chinese New Year Mystery

by Carolyn Keene

The Chinese New Year Mystery by Carolyn Keene is an exciting book about the Lunar New Year celebration. In this thrilling mystery, Nancy Drew and her friends travel to San Francisco’s Chinatown to take part in the festive celebrations. However, their trip takes a dangerous turn when they stumble upon a puzzling mystery involving a missing family heirloom. As they unravel the clues, Nancy and her friends immerse themselves in the rich traditions and customs of the Chinese New Year, making this book a fascinating dive into the vibrant culture and traditions of this holiday. With its engaging storyline and cultural insights, The Chinese New Year Mystery is a captivating read for anyone interested in learning more about the customs and traditions of this celebratory time of year.

The Dragon New Year: A Chinese Legend

by David Bouchard

The Dragon New Year: A Chinese Legend by David Bouchard is a captivating book about the Chinese New Year. The story revolves around a little girl named Li-Ming who learns about the importance of the Dragon New Year from her grandmother. As she listens to her grandmother’s tales, Li-Ming is transported to ancient China and experiences the vibrant celebrations and traditions of the Chinese New Year. The book is filled with beautiful illustrations that bring the festive spirit of the holiday to life. Readers will be immersed in the rich cultural heritage of the Chinese New Year as they follow Li-Ming’s journey through the ancient legends and customs. The Dragon New Year is a delightful and educational read for anyone interested in learning more about this important celebration.

The Year of the Rat

by Clare Furniss

The Year of the Rat by Clare Furniss is a heartwarming and poignant coming-of-age novel that delves into themes of grief, family, and new beginnings. Set in the backdrop of the Chinese New Year, the story follows Pearl as she navigates the loss of her mother and the challenges of starting afresh. The book captures the emotional turmoil and growth of the protagonist as she grapples with her mother’s absence and finds solace in unexpected places. With vivid descriptions and authentic characters, this book about Chinese New Year beautifully conveys the spirit of renewal and hope amidst sorrow. The Year of the Rat is a touching and insightful read that explores the complexities of loss and the power of resilience.

The Chinese New Year

by Ann Heinrichs

The Chinese New Year by Ann Heinrichs is a captivating book about Chinese New Year that explores the rich traditions and customs of this festive holiday. Readers will be immersed in the vibrant celebrations, colorful parades, and delicious feasts that mark the arrival of the Lunar New Year. Through vivid illustrations and engaging storytelling, the author takes readers on a journey through the history and significance of this important holiday in Chinese culture. From the iconic dragon and lion dances to the exchange of red envelopes and fireworks displays, this Chinese New Year book is a delightful introduction to the customs and symbols that define this joyous occasion. Whether you are familiar with the holiday or new to its traditions, this book is a wonderful resource for learning about the Chinese New Year.

The Year of the Pig

by Oliver Chin

The Year of the Pig by Oliver Chin is a delightful children’s book about the Chinese New Year. The story follows a little pig named Patty as she prepares for the festivities of the Lunar New Year. With vibrant illustrations and engaging storytelling, young readers will learn about the customs and traditions of this important holiday. This is not just a book on Chinese New Year; it is an educational and entertaining journey through the celebration of the Lunar New Year. The book offers a fun and insightful look into the ‘Year of the Pig’ and is a perfect addition to any collection of books about Chinese New Year.

The Year of the Ox

by Oliver Chin

The Year of the Ox by Oliver Chin is a delightful children’s book about the Chinese New Year. This charming story follows a young girl named Su and her mischievous puppy as they celebrate the arrival of the Year of the Ox. The colorful illustrations and engaging narrative provide a fun and educational introduction to the customs and traditions of the Lunar New Year. Readers will learn about the significance of the ox in Chinese culture and the various festive activities that take place during this special time of year. With its heartwarming story and cultural insights, The Year of the Ox is a perfect choice for anyone looking for a book about Chinese New Year to share with young readers.

The Year of the Horse

by Oliver Chin

The Year of the Horse by Oliver Chin is a captivating children’s book about the Chinese New Year. This delightful story follows a young girl named Su and her family as they prepare for the festive celebrations. Su learns about the traditions and customs of the Chinese New Year, including the significance of the zodiac animal of the year, the horse. With colorful illustrations and engaging storytelling, this book is a perfect introduction for young readers to the rich cultural heritage of the Chinese New Year. Full of excitement and wonder, The Year of the Horse is a must-read for anyone looking to learn more about this joyous holiday.

D is for Dragon Dance

by Ying Chang Compestine

D is for Dragon Dance” by Ying Chang Compestine is a vibrant and engaging book about Chinese New Year. The book takes young readers on an exciting journey through the alphabet, exploring various customs and traditions associated with the Chinese New Year celebration. From the colorful Dragon Dance to the delicious food enjoyed during the festive season, this book provides a fun and educational look at the cultural significance of Chinese New Year. With its lively illustrations and informative text, “D is for Dragon Dance” is a wonderful resource for introducing children to the rich traditions of this important holiday. Whether you’re looking for a book on Chinese New Year, a book about Chinese New Year, or simply a fun and educational read for young readers, this book is a perfect choice.

Lion Dancer: Ernie Wan’s Chinese New Year

by Kate Waters

Lion Dancer: Ernie Wan’s Chinese New Year by Kate Waters is a captivating book about Chinese New Year that takes readers on a vibrant journey through the celebration of this festive holiday. The story follows Ernie Wan, a young boy who is excited to take part in the traditional lion dance during the Chinese New Year parade. Through beautiful photographs and engaging text, readers are immersed in the sights, sounds, and customs of this joyous occasion. From the colorful lion costumes to the rhythmic drumming and the delicious feasts, this book on Chinese New Year provides an insightful and celebratory look at the traditions and spirit of the holiday. Lion Dancer is a wonderful choice for readers of all ages who want to learn more about the rich and lively traditions of Chinese New Year.

The Runaway Wok: A Chinese New Year Tale

by Ying Chang Compestine

The Runaway Wok: A Chinese New Year Tale by Ying Chang Compestine is a delightful and heartwarming book about Chinese New Year. This charming picture book tells the story of a poor family who receives a magical wok that helps bring prosperity to their home. The wok, with a mind of its own, goes on a thrilling adventure, spreading good fortune to those in need. Filled with vibrant illustrations and a heartwarming message about generosity and community, this book is a wonderful addition to any library. The Runaway Wok is a perfect choice for anyone looking for a captivating and educational book about Chinese New Year that celebrates the spirit of the holiday.

Goldy Luck and the Three Pandas

by Natasha Yim

Goldy Luck and the Three Pandas by Natasha Yim is a delightful children’s book about Chinese New Year. The story is a fun twist on the classic Goldilocks and the Three Bears tale, set in a Chinese American household. Goldy Luck brings a tray of turnip cakes to her neighbors, the Chans, but accidentally breaks their belongings. As she tries to make things right, she discovers the traditions of Chinese New Year and learns valuable lessons about honesty and forgiveness. The book is filled with colorful illustrations and offers a heartwarming introduction to the customs and festivities of the Lunar New Year. This charming ‘book about Chinese New Year’ is a perfect read for young readers looking to learn about the holiday in a fun and engaging way.

Dragon Dance: A Chinese New Year Lift-the-Flap Book

by Joan Holub

Dragon Dance: A Chinese New Year Lift-the-Flap Book by Joan Holub is a delightful and interactive book about Chinese New Year. The book takes readers on a vibrant journey through the traditions and customs of this festive holiday. With colorful illustrations and engaging lift-the-flap elements, children can explore the excitement of the Chinese New Year celebrations, including lion dances, fireworks, and delicious food. This book on Chinese New Year offers an educational and entertaining experience, perfect for young readers who want to learn about different cultures and traditions. With its fun and interactive format, Dragon Dance is a wonderful way to introduce children to the joy and significance of the Chinese New Year celebration.

Sam and the Lucky Money

by Karen Chinn

Sam and the Lucky Money is a heartwarming book about Chinese New Year. The story follows young Sam as he receives lucky money from his grandparents to spend however he chooses. As he explores Chinatown with his family, Sam encounters several people in need. With the little red envelope of lucky money burning a hole in his pocket, Sam is faced with a tough decision about how to use it. This beautifully illustrated book captures the spirit of generosity and the importance of kindness during the Chinese New Year celebration. Readers will be captivated by Sam’s journey and the valuable lesson he learns along the way. This book about Chinese New Year is a perfect addition to any collection of multicultural children’s literature.

Conclusion

Chinese New Year is a vibrant and important cultural holiday, and these 20 best books about Chinese New Year offer a fascinating glimpse into the traditions and customs surrounding this festive time. From children’s stories to historical accounts, these books capture the spirit of the holiday and provide valuable insights into Chinese culture. Whether you’re looking to learn more about Chinese New Year or simply want to enjoy a captivating read, these books are sure to delight and inform readers of all ages.

Which Chinese New Year book is best?

The best book on Chinese New Year can vary with personal preference, but three widely recommended titles are:

  1. The Nian Monster by Andrea Wang,
  2. The Runaway Wok by Ying Chang Compestine,
  3. Bringing in the New Year by Grace Lin.

Each offers valuable insights and could be a great starting point.

What are the best books to learn about Chinese New Year?

For those looking to learn about Chinese New Year, there is a wealth of literature that can provide a comprehensive understanding of the subject. Some of the most highly recommended books include:

  1. The Nian Monster by Andrea Wang,
  2. The Runaway Wok by Ying Chang Compestine,
  3. Bringing in the New Year by Grace Lin,
  4. The Great Race: The Story of the Chinese Zodiac by Dawn Casey,
  5. Ruby’s Chinese New Year by Vickie Lee,
  6. The Year of the Dog by Grace Lin,
  7. The Dancing Dragon by Marcia K. Vaughan,
  8. The Chinese New Year Mystery by Carolyn Keene,
  9. The Dragon New Year: A Chinese Legend by David Bouchard,
  10. The Year of the Rat by Clare Furniss

These books offer a range of perspectives on Chinese New Year, covering various aspects and approaches to the subject.

What are the best books on Chinese New Year?

The best books on Chinese New Year include:

Each offers unique insights into the subject. While these books on the topic of Chinese New Year are highly regarded, it’s important to note that any list of ‘best’ books is subjective and reflects a range of opinions.

What are the best Chinese New Year books of all time?

Choosing the best Chinese New Year books of all time can vary depending on who you ask, but seven titles that are often celebrated include