—January 14, 2025

Based on a true story…

Based on Zed's great-grandmother's true, heroic story, this book invites kids (and their parents) to join Mèng, a Chinese American girl, and her dad at their Chinese New Year dinner preparation. While enjoying yummy snacks, you can discover Zed’s family legend — the most important ancestor without a name — and the legacy of kindness she left behind. By remembering the great-grandmother’s act of courage, where she sacrificed her dignity to save a life, and enjoying the snack she loved so much, we honor our ancestors and celebrate our traditions.

Learn Chinese and Make Yummy Treats at Home!

On each page, kids will learn simple Chinese phrases relevant to the Lunar New Year and Chinese traditions! And if you come to Zed’s book events, you might just be able to get your name written in traditional Chinese calligraphy!

Along the way, readers see how food plays an important role in the festivities and why one food—peanuts—is an important snack. The simple recipe for fried peanuts at the end of the story provides a fun, easy way to include the Lunar New Year in your annually celebrated holidays.

Amazing illustration.

The illustrator, Sian James, was born in Hong Kong and has been drawing ever since she could pick up a pencil. Having lived a previous life as an archaeologist, she likes to combine her passions for nature, history, and art to tell stories from the mundane to the magical. She lives in Cambridge, England, with her husband, daughter, and two cats.  

Book Events

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Book Events 🧧

  • January 18, 2025

    Inklings Bookshop

    11 AM - 1 PM

    5629 Summitview Ave, Yakima, WA 98908

    Have your book signed and your name written in Chinese calligraphy!

  • Saturday February 8th, 2025

    2:00 PM - 3:00 PM

    The Norwich Bookstore

    291 Main St, PO Box 307, Norwich, VT, 05055

    Book Signing!