We’re excited to celebrate Asian Pacific American Heritage Month this May! It has been a rough year for Asian Americans as there has been so many stories of Asians being the target of discrimination during the Covid-19 Pandemic. This month’s celebration comes at an important time in current events and books like these are great in helping kids to understand and celebrate the Asian Culture as well as provide an opportunity for parents to teach them. Here are some Simon and Schuster Children Publishing’s stories by and about Asian Americans. We recommend these hand picked books below that are also kid approved!
AMY WU AND THE PERFECT BAO
By Kat Zhang, Illustrated by Charlene Chua
10/1/19 | Ages Up to 4-8
We love this book! It’s is a fun and adorable cooking adventure. The story is great for encouraging little ones to get involved in preparing a meal. The main character Amy Wu is determined, confident and totally cute. It was a joy to see her journey in making that perfect bao. This book also includes a perfect bao recipe that you can try yourself!
MINDY KIM
By Lyla Lee, Illustrated by Dung Ho
Ages 6-9
We are excited about this new adorable chapter book series for our 2nd grader who can relate to Mindy Kim’s adventures and identity as a Asian American girl facing new beginnings and transitions. Mindy Kim is a new kid in school with lots of big ideas and is learning how to share and celebrate her culture with others. She’s that girl at school that you would love to be friends with.
I’m OK
By Patti Kim
10/15/19 | Ages 10 and Up
My 5th grade son immediately liked the title of this book and was attracted to the story of the main character Lee finding the perfect get-rich-quick scheme, since the idea of being a kid entrepreneur is fascinating to him. Lee feels responsible to help pay bills for his family to help make ends meet. His family is in a hard situation with his father gone and his mother working three jobs. After exploring his options, he tries a hair braiding business! This book is not just funny, it’s uplifting, heartfelt and real, providing a window into a teenagers life and the honest feelings during this confusing time.
For more info, visit their website at https://www.simonandschuster.com/.
For more book Ideas
–“Sisters” Book by Jeanette Winter and Other New Titles
(By Joyce Lee- Written in collaboration with Simon and Schuster Children Publishing, all opinions are my own.)
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