Chinese New Year Books For Kids 2025
Chinese New Year is one of the most widely celebrated holidays around the world, and it’s an especially exciting time for children. The colors, the traditions, and the cultural significance of the festival provide a wonderful opportunity for kids to learn about the Chinese heritage and the importance of family, renewal, and good fortune. As we approach Chinese New Year 2025, which marks the Year of the Snake, there is no better way to celebrate and educate young minds than with Chinese New Year books for kids.
Books can open the door to new experiences and cultures, and they serve as an excellent tool to help children understand the traditions surrounding this important holiday. Whether you’re looking for picture books, educational stories, or books about the Chinese zodiac, there are many wonderful books available that help kids connect with the spirit of the Lunar New Year. Here’s a list of top Chinese New Year books for kids to enjoy in 2025.
1. “Bringing in the New Year” by Grace Lin
Grace Lin’s “Bringing in the New Year” is a beautifully illustrated picture book that introduces children to the excitement and energy of Chinese New Year. The story follows a family as they prepare for the festival, from decorating their home with red lanterns to preparing traditional dishes. Through its vibrant illustrations, this book highlights the customs and traditions associated with the holiday, such as the cleaning of the house (to sweep away bad luck), the red envelopes filled with money (symbolizing good fortune), and the celebration of family togetherness.
Lin also touches upon the Chinese zodiac, including the animal for the year, making this a wonderful book for children who are curious about the significance of each year’s animal. “Bringing in the New Year” is a perfect introduction to the joy and excitement of the Lunar New Year for young readers.
2. “The Runaway Wok: A Chinese New Year Tale” by Ying Chang Compestine
Ying Chang Compestine’s “The Runaway Wok” is a funny and whimsical story that combines humor with Chinese New Year traditions. The book tells the story of a poor family who receives a magical wok that brings them more than they ever imagined. The wok helps them to make enough food to share with their entire community during the Chinese New Year feast, demonstrating the importance of generosity and family in the Chinese culture.
This book is not only entertaining but also educational, introducing children to traditional Chinese foods such as dumplings, noodles, and rice cakes. The themes of kindness, selflessness, and community service are highlighted throughout the story, making it an excellent choice for teaching children about the values of Chinese New Year. The vibrant illustrations and engaging narrative make “The Runaway Wok” a holiday favorite for children.
3. “The Great Race: The Story of the Chinese Zodiac” by Dawn Casey
The Chinese zodiac is one of the most exciting aspects of Chinese New Year, and “The Great Race: The Story of the Chinese Zodiac” by Dawn Casey is an excellent way to introduce children to its origins. This picture book tells the tale of the legendary race that determined the order of the animals in the Chinese zodiac. According to the story, the Jade Emperor invited the animals to race across a river, and the first twelve animals to finish would be given a place in the zodiac.
The story is filled with rich, colorful illustrations and a strong sense of adventure, making it an engaging way for children to learn about the animals of the Chinese zodiac. Each animal has its own unique characteristics, and the book helps children understand the symbolism behind the animals’ placement in the zodiac. With the Year of the Snake in 2025, this book offers an opportunity to teach kids about the qualities associated with the snake, such as wisdom, intuition, and transformation.
4. “Dragon Dance: A Chinese New Year Story” by Joan Holub
Joan Holub’s “Dragon Dance: A Chinese New Year Story” is a delightful tale that takes children through the excitement of a Chinese New Year celebration in the heart of a community. The story focuses on the preparations for a dragon dance, a central part of the Chinese New Year festivities. The dragon dance is a vibrant and energetic performance that is believed to bring good luck and chase away evil spirits.
In the book, children will learn about the customs surrounding the dragon dance, from the creation of the dragon costume to the rhythm of the drums and cymbals that accompany the performance. The colorful illustrations and rhythmic text help young readers understand the significance of the dragon dance and other celebratory activities during Chinese New Year. The story is a wonderful way to engage children with the cultural traditions of the holiday and the excitement of the festivities.
5. “Chinese New Year” by Youshan Tang
“Chinese New Year” by Youshan Tang is an informative and visually rich book that provides an in-depth look at the history, traditions, and cultural significance of Chinese New Year. While the book is not a storybook per se, it serves as an excellent educational resource for children who want to understand the customs of the holiday.
The book covers key topics such as the Chinese zodiac, the lunar calendar, the importance of red envelopes, and the significance of certain foods and decorations. It also highlights the ways in which families celebrate Chinese New Year, including family reunions, firecrackers, and visits to temples. The book’s engaging illustrations and simple text make it accessible to younger readers while still providing a wealth of information for older children.
6. “The Twelve Chinese Zodiac Animals” by Lisa Boalt Richardson
In this beautifully illustrated book, Lisa Boalt Richardson tells the story of each of the twelve animals in the Chinese zodiac. The book goes through each animal’s role in the Chinese zodiac cycle, explaining the qualities associated with each sign. The book is perfect for children who are curious about the animals and their connection to the lunar calendar.
“The Twelve Chinese Zodiac Animals” is a fun, educational tool that helps kids learn not only about the animals but also about the values and traits they represent, such as loyalty, kindness, and intelligence. As the Year of the Snake approaches, this book provides a great opportunity to teach children about the significance of the snake in Chinese culture and its role in the zodiac.
7. “Lunar New Year” by Amy Krouse Rosenthal
Amy Krouse Rosenthal’s “Lunar New Year” is a simple yet beautifully crafted book that introduces young children to the festive spirit of the Lunar New Year. The book uses easy-to-read language and charming illustrations to explain the different traditions associated with the holiday, from the festive foods to the vibrant parades and firecrackers. The story emphasizes the themes of renewal, family, and good fortune that are central to the Chinese New Year celebration.
This book is a perfect choice for younger readers who are just beginning to learn about Chinese New Year. Its bright illustrations and joyful tone make it an excellent way to introduce children to the holiday in an engaging and accessible way.
Why Chinese New Year Books for Kids Matter
Chinese New Year books for kids not only teach children about the customs and traditions of the holiday, but they also foster an appreciation for Chinese culture and the values of family, unity, and renewal. These books provide a wonderful opportunity for children to learn about diversity, kindness, and the importance of honoring traditions, while also offering a fun and exciting way to celebrate the Lunar New Year.
As Chinese New Year 2025 approaches, sharing these books with your children can help them connect to the cultural significance of the holiday and create lasting memories. Whether you’re reading about the Chinese zodiac, enjoying a story about a magical wok, or learning about dragon dances, these books will bring the festive spirit of Chinese New Year to life in your home.
