D is for Dragon Dance

by Ying Chang Compestine, YongSheng Xuan (Illustrator)

Overview

A bilingual introduction to the Chinese New Year in English and Chinese.

From the dazzling dragon dance to the scrumptious steamed dumplings to the firecrackers that frighten away evil spirits, this alphabet book celebrates the traditions of the lunar new year. First published in 2006, this new rendition presents the English text alongside the Chinese.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780823440290
Publisher:	Holiday House
Publication date:	10/23/2018
Edition description:	Bilingual Edition
Pages:	32
Product dimensions:	11.20(w) x 8.60(h) x 0.30(d)
Age Range:	4 - 8 Years

About the Author

YING CHANG COMPESTINE grew up in China and later moved to the United States. Her books include The Story of Chopsticks, The Story of Noodles, The Story of Kites, and The Story of Paper, all illustrated by YONG SHENG XUAN.

YONGSHENG XUAN is the acclaimed illustrator of many books for children, including The Rooster's Antlers: A Story of the Chinese Zodiac by ERIC A. KIMMEL and YING CHANG COMPESTINE'S The Story Of... series. He was born in China.

Editorial Reviews

"Simple text and large illustrations fill this Chinese New Year–themed alphabet book. . . .A solid choice for introducing the Chinese New Year to young children that will work well as a read-aloud in a group setting."—School Library Journal

From the Publisher

02/01/2019

PreS-Gr 1—Simple text and large illustrations fill this Chinese New Year–themed alphabet book. Short explanatory sentences add context for young listeners, although some may prompt further questioning from children unfamiliar with the holiday ("D is for Dragon Dance/E is for Evil Spirits/F is for Firecrackers/Dragon dancers and firecrackers scare away evil spirits."). Xuan's bold, textured illustrations feature a family preparing and celebrating, with large Chinese characters in a range of calligraphy styles subtly incorporated into the background. One page of back matter offers slightly more information about the holiday, ideas on how to "ensure good fortune in the New Year" and an artist's note. Unfortunately, while Xuan explains the calligraphy styles, no translation of the characters is given. Originally published in 2006, this new edition is bilingual, with all text appearing in English, simplified Chinese characters, and pinyin transliteration. The dumpling recipe in the original back matter has been moved online. VERDICT A solid choice for introducing the Chinese New Year to young children that will work well as a read-aloud in a group setting.—Jennifer Rothschild, Arlington County Public Libraries, VA

School Library Journal