A Vietnamese community prepares for Tet one chore and anticipatory event at a time, leading up to the big NewYear's event. Keep your eye on "Main Mouse" (wearing a red head scarf in the spreads) who is a bit naughty but very lovable.
Please read about how the gorgeous, one-of-a-kind embroidered illustration was made in Vietnam. Co-author and project director, Cynthia Weill, was working in Hanoi and came upon a village famous for its embroidery. After pictures and colors were approved state-side by Chronicle, she literally ventured over a six-month period to the village to supervise and marvel over the work. Readers can actually see every stitch. The new e-book version, which should allow magnification, makes the artistry even more astounding.
Extensive back matter about foods, games, music, details about Tet, plus a pronunciation guide. Having lived through footage of the Vietnam War, I am so delighted to have worked on this book and to share the country's culture with young readers and their parents.
Starred review in PW; additional glowing Booklist and SLJ reviews on Amazon. A Bank Street College Book of the Year (the college bookstore even threw us a launch party), an IRA Notable Book for a Global Society, and a CBC/NCSS Notable Book in the Social Studies.
