An adorably charming and funny picture book about a family of dumplings—and a middle child trying to stand out—for fans of Jory John and Pete Oswald’s Food Group series
When Bao’s family gathers for Lunar New Year Eve, everyone “ooh”s and “aah”s over big sister Crystal’s piano playing and little brother Wonton’s pinchable cheeks. Poor Bao feels left out!
He hatches a plan to one-up his brother and sister: Bao will collect more hong bao—red envelopes with gifts that symbolize good fortune—than both of his siblings COMBINED!
As he gathers hong bao, Bao helps his neighbors along the way. With every act of kindness, he discovers that what makes him special is something else entirely—and it’s been inside him all along.
Praise
“Joyful, playful, and bold artwork marries perfectly with the whimsical yet wise writing; Bao may feel inadequate, but readers watching him happily serve his neighbors and family will easily see his value. A touching, skillfully crafted story that artfully depicts middle child syndrome through the eyes of a precious bao.”
—School Library Journal
“This fun, silly, emotive book celebrates middle children and will also make readers feel a little bit snacky.”
—Bulletin of the Center for Children’s Books
“Taking readers through common Lunar New Year rituals, this affirming tale by Tanumihardja and Yeh introduces a young foodstuff protagonist who yearns to stand out…an exuberant ode to being kind in a time of togetherness.”
—Publishers Weekly
