Books can transport you anywhere at any given time \u2014 they offer us a perspective and experience that we may otherwise never know. Reading books about another person\u2019s culture provides us with a glimpse into someone else\u2019s story. This is integral in encouraging open and accepting minds and hearts in adults and children alike.<\/p>\n
May is Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month. It\u2019s a time to recognize how Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islander Americans have contributed to and influenced the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. The month of May was chosen to commemorate the arrival of the first known Japanese immigrant to the United States on May 7, 1843, and to mark the anniversary of the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869. Up to 20,000 of the workers who laid the tracks were Chinese immigrants.<\/p>\n
Teaching kids about different cultures helps them appreciate the differences in people and their traditions.\u00a0It also helps them respect similarities, which will, in turn, help them understand who they are in the context of their own race, ethnic group, culture, religion, language, and familial history.<\/p>\n
Below are a few books written by Asian authors to read this month with children of all ages. Spy any you want to read?<\/p>\n
no no 9780375866050 Bringing In the New Year<\/i> by Grace Lin <\/p>\n
Grace Lin’s beautiful story follows a Chinese American family as they prepare to celebrate the Lunar New Year. With gorgeous illustrations and a surprise fold-out page at the end of this story, this book introduces babies to the customs of Lunar New Year – from decorations and fireworks to dumpling making.
\n(Ages 0 – 3)<\/i> <\/p>\n
9780593425428 Everyone Loves Lunchtime but Zia<\/i> by Jenny Liao, illustrated by Dream Chen <\/p>\n
This delicious picture book is about a girl who introduces her classmates to Cantonese cuisine. Zia wishes she could have a lunch that looks, tastes, and smells like everyone else\u2019s. She dreads lunchtime until her parents pack some extra-special lunches and explain the significance behind each one. Foodies of all ages will appreciate this adorable story!
\n(Ages 3 – 5)<\/i><\/p>\n
RELATED: Kids\u2019 Books on the Experiences of Asian American Immigrants<\/a><\/p>\n 9780525644613 The Paper Kingdom<\/i> by Helena Ku Rhee, illustrated by Pascal Campion <\/p>\n Kids with big imaginations will appreciate this fantastical story about a young boy learning to see the magic in everyday situations. When David goes with his parents to their overnight jobs as janitors, he expects a long, boring night. But Mama and Papa show him that even an empty office can be a place where imagination roams free. 9781536219401 Masala Chai<\/i> by Rajani LaRocca, illustrated by Neha Rawat <\/p>\n In this heartwarming intergenerational tale, Aarav discovers the art of making chai from his grandfather, all while learning valuable lessons in mindfulness and patience. The charming illustrations will captivate young readers, and they will come away with a deeper understanding of the rewards that come from waiting and being patient. 9780593427132 The Spice Box<\/i> by Meera Sriram, illustrated by Sandhya Prabhat <\/p>\n Rishi’s family’s spice box holds not only fragrant spices but also treasured memories passed down through generations. When Rishi accidentally drops the box, he finds strength and purpose in honoring their shared history, ultimately fixing what was broken. A beautiful tale of family and the foods and flavors that connect generations. 9780440417996 The Name Jar<\/i> by Yangsook Choi <\/p>\n The Name Jar<\/i> will help children understand how it feels to have people constantly mispronounce or make fun of your name. The book boasts great lessons about self-love and acceptance of others, as well as introduces readers to topics like having respect for other cultures and friendship. Overall, The Name Jar<\/i> is a delightful story for preschoolers and young elementary students. 9780823444366 No Kimchi For Me!<\/i> by Aram Kim <\/p>\n Do your children have any food aversions? When both of my kids were babies, they ate practically anything I made for them. Now, as they\u2019ve gotten older, they have become somewhat fussy about eating certain foods. My son tends to be particularly picky about the texture and look of some meats. But aren\u2019t we all a little finicky sometimes? Besides, isn\u2019t it normal for children to be fussy eaters? It\u2019s a way of exploring their environment and asserting their independence. Little Yoomi illustrates this point very well in the book No Kimchi for Me!<\/i> A simple recipe for making kimchi pancakes is included in the back matter. RELATED: Children\u2019s Books About Cuisine Around the World<\/a><\/p>\n 9780593564691 Piper Chen Sings<\/i> by Phillipa Soo and Maris Pasquale Doran, illustrated by Qin Leng <\/p>\n Piper Chen Sings<\/i> is a heartwarming tale of Piper, a young girl who overcomes her performance jitters with the help of her grandmother, Nai Nai, to find confidence in singing a solo at her school concert. Inspired by the childhood experience of actress Phillipa Soo, this empowering story celebrates the bond between generations and the strength found in facing fears with bravery and support. 9780593648834 Always Anjali <\/i> by Sheetal Sheth, illustrated by Jessica Blank <\/p>\n When Anjali struggles to find a personalized nameplate for her new bike, she decides she\u2019d like to become Angie instead. Anjali\u2019s mother shares the special meaning behind her name and its connection to her family\u2019s Indian heritage, helping her to realize how wonderful her name is. A beautifully illustrated picture book with a positive message that\u2019s sure to resonate with many kids. 9780593530061 Kapaemahu<\/i> by Hinaleimoana Wong-Kalu, Dean Hamer, and Joe Wilson, illustrated by Daniel Sousa <\/p>\n This inspiring story follows the journey of the Mahu people, from Tahiti to Waikiki. Upon their arrival, the Mahu people shared their knowledge of science and healing with the people of Waikiki and left behind healing boulders as a symbol of their honor. This classic tale in the making, reminds us of the significance of sharing our knowledge and gifts with others. 9780593353943 Nana, Nenek & Nina<\/i> by Liza Ferneyhough <\/p>\n This ALA Asian\/Pacific American Award for Literature honor book takes readers along on Nina\u2019s visits to her grandmothers\u2019 homes. Nana lives in England, while Nenek resides in Malaysia. Despite their different cultures and traditions, Nina also finds many similarities. A beautifully illustrated multigenerational story that radiates familial love and pride in one\u2019s heritage. 9781774880944 Once Upon a Sari<\/i> by Zenia Wadhwani, illustrated by Avani Dwivedi <\/p>\n In this adorable picture book, Avani accidentally makes a mess while playing in her mom’s beautiful saris. When her mom comes to find her, she takes the opportunity to share the rich history, memories, and cultural significance of the lovely garments. Young readers get to know Indian culture and the value of preserving traditions. RELATED: 13 Books for Kids That Celebrate Asian Cultures<\/a><\/p>\n 9780593306260 My First Day<\/i> by Ph\u00f9ng Nguy\u00ean Quang, illustrated by Hu\u1ef3nh Kim Li\u00ean <\/p>\n Children curious about kids around the world will love this magical book about a young Vietnamese boy going to school. This picture book will transport young readers to the other side of the world as they row down the Mekong Delta and dodge perils along the way. 9781580896535 Goldy Luck and the Three Pandas<\/i> by Natasha Yim, illustrated by Grace Zong <\/p>\n In this adorable Chinese American retelling of Goldilocks and the Three Bears<\/i>, Goldy Luck accidentally wreaks havoc on the home of a family of panda bears. She eats up the littlest panda’s rice porridge, breaks his rocking chair, and rumples all the blankets on his futon. I love this fun take on the original Goldilocks<\/i> story and appreciate the fact that, in this retelling, Goldy helps to make things right in the end. 9781984814869 The Ocean Calls<\/i> by Tina Cho, illustrated by Jess X. Snow <\/p>\n Dayeon\u2019s grandma is a haenyeo<\/i> (a Korean free diver) who is strong, intelligent, and fearless. It\u2019s no wonder that Dayeon wants to follow in her footsteps. But before she can conquer the ocean, she will have to overcome her fear of the water. This heartfelt story is about traditions, family bonds, and facing our fears. 9781536205602 Crouching Tiger <\/i> by Ying Chang Compestine <\/p>\n Vinson loves watching Grandfather practice tai chi in the backyard, but he doesn\u2019t fully understand the purpose of doing it each day. Eventually, his grandfather begins to teach him the basic movements of tai chi, but Vinson soon finds it is hard and requires a lot of patience. It isn\u2019t until the New Year\u2019s Eve parade that Vinson begins to understand his grandfather\u2019s purpose and passion for tai chi and meditation. 9780375849305 Alvin Ho: Allergic to Girls, School, and Other Scary Things<\/i> by Lenore Look, illustrated by Leuyen Pham <\/p>\n Alvin Ho is a quirky, second-grade Chinese American boy who struggles with anxiety on a daily basis. Alvin is scared of a lot of things \u2014 including elevators, talking in school, girls, and more. Throughout the book, Alvin learns to cope with his phobias and insecurities, overcome fears, and ultimately ends up growing as a person. 9780593372876 Meesh the Bad Demon #1<\/i> by Michelle Lam <\/p>\n Twelve-year-old Meesh doesn\u2019t fit in with the other demons, and the fairies won\u2019t accept her. But when disaster strikes her home in the underworld, will Meesh be able to find the help she needs in the Fairy World? With stunning illustrations, endearing characters, and a magical story, this first volume of a new graphic novel series is sure to steal your young reader\u2019s heart. RELATED: Graphic Novels for Kids by Asian Authors & Illustrators<\/a><\/p>\n 9780525553823 The Many Masks of Andy Zho<\/i> by Jack Cheng <\/p>\n From the author of See You in the Cosmos<\/a><\/i> comes a new story about a young boy navigating the complexities of his identity and heritage. With themes of cultural identity, family, and belonging, this is a poignant and thought-provoking read for tweens. 9780593522035 Lei and the Fire Goddess <\/i> by Malia Maunakea <\/p>\n Fans of Percy Jackson are sure to love this middle grade fantasy set in Hawaii. When Anna inadvertently angers the vengeful fire goddess Pele, she embarks on a dangerous quest to save her best friend. Along the way, Anna learns important lessons about bravery, friendship, and the power of her heritage. With vivid imagery and a rich cultural backdrop, Lei and the Fire Goddess<\/i> is a thrilling and heartwarming adventure that is sure to captivate young readers. 9781524715700 When You Trap a Tiger<\/i> by Tae Keller <\/p>\n Korean folktales, family secrets, magic, and unpredictable bargains combine into an exciting and uplifting story for young readers. A tiger offers Lily the deal of a lifetime \u2014 her grandmother\u2019s health in exchange for something she stole long ago. But the bargain isn\u2019t as simple as it sounds, and Lily will have to find the strength to save her family from the tiger\u2019s grasp. 9780525554974 Stand Up, Yumi Chang<\/i> by Jessica Kim <\/p>\n Stand Up, Yumi Chang<\/i> is an engaging and touching story of determination and staying true to yourself even if it\u2019s not what others expect of you. Eleven-year-old Yumi\u2019s dream is to become a stand-up comedian, but her Korean immigrant parents envision something entirely different for her future. As things start to unravel in her life, Yumi has to decide between standing up to face the music or risk losing her dream. 9780593174371 Soul Lantern<\/i> by Shaw Kuski <\/p>\n Originally published in Japan, this impactful middle grade novel offers a fresh historical perspective on the aftermath of WWII. Set in Hiroshima in the 1970s, the story follows three children who decide to base their school art project on the effects of the 1945 bombing of their city. In gathering stories of the past, the kids find that WWII left deep scars on their community, marks still felt even a quarter-century later. 9780593464359 When You Wish Upon a Lantern<\/i> by Gloria Chao <\/p>\n In Chinese tradition, paper lanterns carry wishes from people who release them during the end of Chinese New Year celebrations. In this delightful coming-of-age novel, we meet Liya and Kai, two former best friends that work together to save Liya\u2019s family\u2019s lantern store by granting their customers\u2019 wishes. This heartfelt story about first love brims with Chinese culture and unforgettable characters. Perfect for fans who can’t wait for Netflix\u2019s XOXO Kitty<\/i>. 9780593125298 The Magic Fish<\/i> by Trung Le Nguyen <\/p>\n Filled with emotional depth and integrity, The Magic Fish<\/i> tells the story of Ti\u1ebfn, a young teenager who loves borrowing books\u2014especially fairytales\u2014from the library to share with his parents. Teenagers have a hard time connecting with their parents, but this is especially hard for Ti\u1ebfn because his parents struggle with English. It can be challenging to share little things with those barriers, but trying to tell them he is gay is near impossible. Readers will love getting lost in Ti\u1ebfn\u2019s fairytales as he navigates everyday life. And while fairytales aren\u2019t real, this book proves that we can all still find a happy ending. 9780593300916 Six Crimson Cranes<\/i> by Elizabeth Lim <\/p>\n If you loved Spin the Dawn<\/a><\/i>, you won\u2019t want to miss out on Elizabeth Lim\u2019s next novel. It\u2019s a breathtaking fairy tale about a princess named Shiori trying to break the curse on her brothers and stop a sinister conspiracy threatening her kingdom. Filled with magic, romance, and peril, this fast-paced YA fantasy is a must-read! RELATED: Asian-Inspired Sci-Fi & Fantasy Books for Teens<\/a><\/p>\n 9780593327500 From Little Tokyo, With Love<\/i> by Sarah Kuhn <\/p>\n This novel is a modern fairy tale about a girl with anger issues trying to find acceptance from her family and herself. It\u2019s a love letter to Los Angeles and young people everywhere who feel like they don\u2019t fit in. If you\u2019re in the mood for a contemporary YA romance, this is a fantastic choice. <\/p>\n Editor’s Note: This article was originally published in 2020 and updated in 2023.<\/small><\/i><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" May is Asian American and Native Hawaiian\/Pacific Islander Heritage Month. Celebrate with these children’s and young adult books written by Asian authors. <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":61,"featured_media":18115,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[521,657,1110,1327],"coauthors":[961],"class_list":["post-15884","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-uncategorized","tag-asian-american","tag-celebrations","tag-diverse-books","tag-aanhpi","ages_stages-all-ages"],"yoast_head":"\n
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