Chinese New Year

Holidays, Festivals, & Celebrations

by Ann Heinrichs

The Chinese New Year is a time to celebrate renewal and fresh beginnings. In America, this holiday has become an important and exciting cultural tradition. Lively illustrations and informative text teach readers about the history and pastimes associated with the Chinese New Year, as well as what they can do to commemorate the day.

Genres: Holiday

Library Binding

First published January 1, 2006

About the author

Ann Heinrichs is the author of more than 200 books for children and young adults. They cover U.S. and world history and culture, science and nature, and English grammar. Ann has also enjoyed careers as a children’s book editor and an advertising copywriter. An avid traveler, she has toured Europe, Africa, the Middle East, and East Asia. Born in Fort Smith, Arkansas, she now lives in Chicago. She enjoys biking, kayaking, and flying kites.

Reviews

[Ruth A]

Nonfiction/Twin Text Entry #2

This book that I picked about the Chinese New year was very interesting and had a lot of fasts about the holiday. Each fact that was in that book was very interesting and I could relate it to our New years here in the United States.

This reminded me of the fiction book My First Chinese New year. When I was in grade school I had to to do some research about Chinese people and pick a holiday that the Chinese picked. I had picked that book to read out loud to my class.

Both of the books that I had picked are probably suited for lower grade levels because of the pictures that are in the book and the words are not that complex. Students are going to learn more about the Chinese New Year in the nonfiction book than you are the fiction book about the little girl.

[A Allen · Rating 1 out of 5]

I really liked that Heinrichs outlined one of the legends about the New Year's Eve dragon being afraid of loud noises, bright lights, and the color red! However, I was uncomfortable when the "Joining in the Spirit of Chinese New Year" section suggested visiting a Chinese restaurant and asking the workers which animal goes with this year. It seems problematic to go to someone's work and ask them to educate you about their culture, as if they are constantly expected to have the time and patience and desire to educate everyone who walks in the door. I think a better suggestion for the reader would be to explore if there are learning opportunities offered in the community.

[Jody Kyburz · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another great overview of Chinese New Year!

[Bea · Rating 3 out of 5]

Too old for my toddlers, better for 5 and up. Decent info, good pictures.

[Mommywest · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great resource for learning about Chinese New Year with excellent descriptions and illustrations. Written to hold the interest of children of various ages. Recipes and craft directions included. Preschool Unit: Chinese New Year (Friends in Many Lands)

[Shannon · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is a little dry, but informative. It also has a great recipe for Nian Gao (the traditional New Year's cake) that is naturally Gluten Free.